Emerson College UnCommon Corner

CALO
2024-07-19 16:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)
CALO brings an eclectic mix of 90’s hip-hop classics, remixes, and instrumentals to the UnCommon Stage, accompanied with solo saxophone and electronica.

CALO (Joseph Borsellino III) is an award-winning composer, multi-instrumentalist, producer, and DJ, born and based in Boston. On his principal instrument– saxophone– he has entertained audiences along the eastern coast with popular jazz repertoire, dance music, and instrumental hip-hop imbued with gospel-oriented improvisations. He is celebrating the release of Synthesis: The String Quartet Sessions, released via ArtistShare on June 21st, 2024, for which he was commissioned along with 14 other large ensemble jazz composers by Grammy Award-winning producer Ryan Truesdell.website: linktr.ee/the_real_calosocial media: https://www.instagram.com/jborsellinomusic/

¡Baila Boston! Salsa on the Common
2024-07-19 18:00 - 21:00
Celebrate Summer with Salsa in the Common!

Join us at Emerson’s UnCommon Stage and the Harpoon Beer Garden for an unforgettable night of dance, drinks, and delicious food from Rosa Mexicano.

Hernan Choque of Salsa y Control and Àgora Cultural Architects will light up the corner of Boylston and Tremont with beats that will move your feet! The evening will feature salsa music from Clave and Blues, DJ sets, family-friendly, interactive Salsa lessons, and demos from seasoned Salsa dancers.

Don’t miss your chance to dance the night away on the Common!

Eduardo Betancourt
2024-07-20 13:00 - 15:00, 2024-08-03 13:00 - 15:00
Considered “one of the iconic harpists of this new age,” ​Eduardo Betancourt​ is a Grammy-award winning Venezuelan musician, producer, arranger, composer, instructor, and multi-instrumentalist with 30 years of experience in traditional and fusion Venezuelan music. In 2010, Betancourt won a Latin Grammy Award for his participation on the album ​“​Tesoros de la música Venezolana” by Ilan Chester​, and in 2016, he was nominated on the ​album ​”​Pa’ Tío Simón” with Rafael “Pollo” Brito​.​ At the 2016 Pepsi Music Awards in Venezuela, Betancourt’s personal album, ​AD LIBITUM​, was nominated three times for “Best Artist,” “Best Song,” and “Best Album.” His many accomplishments include more than 100 recordings, and performances with renowned international artists such as: Simon Diaz, Oscar D León, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Danny Rivera, Luis Salinas, Jorge Celedón, and artists from Venezuela.

Fabiola Méndez
2024-07-20 15:00 - 17:00
Fabiola Méndez is a Puerto Rican cuatro player, singer, educator, and Emmy-nominated composer that has taken part in a musical movement, crossing over the lines of genres such as Folk, Afro-Caribbean & Jazz. Recognized as the Latin Artist of the Year 2023 by the Boston Music Awards, her artistic vision and original music focus on the exploration of culture, ancestry, and identity, inviting the listener to embrace how the power of music and storytelling can unify us. After becoming the first graduate from Berklee College of Music to play the Puerto Rican cuatro as a principal instrument (2018), Fabiola focuses on performing and composing, traveling with her trio to national and international festivals. She has received numerous awards, including the Quincy Jones Award, the Brother Thomas Fellowship, ASCAP Lucille and Jack Yellen Award 2022 and a Children’s and Family Emmy nomination for Outstanding Interactive Media in 2023.

https://www.fabiolamendezmusic.com

Facebook – www.facebook.com/FabiolaMendezMusic

IG – @fabiolamendezmusic

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Daniel Sturgis
2024-07-20 18:00 - 20:00
Daniel Sturgis is a talented musician hailing from the vibrant music scene of Cape Cod. With a musical style that seamlessly blends alternative, funk, pop, and rock, Sturgis has created a captivating sound that is uniquely his own. Influenced by legendary artists such as Jimmy Hendrix, B.B. King, and The Beatles, Sturgis draws inspiration from the rich history of music while also pushing boundaries and experimenting with new sonic landscapes.

Having honed his craft at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, Sturgis is a true master of his instrument. His impressive guitar skills, combined with his soulful vocals and dynamic stage presence, make for a captivating live performance that leaves audiences in awe. Sturgis’ talents have not gone unnoticed, as he emerged victorious in the Cape Cod Battle of the Bands in 2011. This accomplishment solidified his place among the region’s most promising musicians and propelled him to new heights in his career.

Currently, Daniel Sturgis is focused on his ongoing musical projects, constantly pushing himself to create fresh and innovative music. Whether he’s writing thought-provoking lyrics or crafting infectious melodies, Sturgis consistently delivers music that resonates with listeners on a profound level. With a diverse range of influences and a dedication to his craft, Daniel Sturgis is an artist to watch. With each new endeavor, he continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of his musical style. As he navigates the ever-evolving music industry, Sturgis remains poised to make a lasting impact with his unique sound and unbridled passion for music.

Facebook.com/Danielsturgisband

Instagram: @danielsturgis

Roella
2024-07-21 16:00 - 18:00, 2024-08-01 13:00 - 15:00
Roella is a British multi-instrumentalist, performer and composer of Nigerian and Jamaican heritage. As of June 2024, she is a recent graduate of the Berklee Global Jazz Institute Masters Programme; in 2023 she was a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Berklee College of Music’s undergraduate programme. In spring 2023 Roella performed with her piano trio at the NAMM show in California and Capitol Turnaround in Washington as a featured artist of the SHEROCKS showcase. Pianistically, she represented Berklee’s Jazz and Gender Justice Institute at the Reno Jazz Festival, the Detroit Jazz Festival Collegiate competition and headlined with NEA Jazz Master and grammy-award winner Terri-Lyne Carrington’s band for BAMSfest.

In May 2022, she won the ISJAC prize for Emerging Black Composers; travelling to Austin, Texas to accept the award and perform with their jazz orchestra. In November 2022, Roella booked a London Mini-tour for her trio during the London Jazz Festival. Three of five show dates; the Royal Albert Hall, Ronnie Scott’s and Pizza Express Soho were sold out. The tour coincided with the release of her first EP ,”Sentient Sounds.”

Instagram: @roellaoloromusic

Twitter: @Rella_xo

Facebook: Roella Jazzisrealmusic Oloro

Samuel Batista
2024-07-24 18:00 - 20:00
Panamanian saxophonist, composer, and educator Samuel Batista mixes Panamanian folkloric and urban music with jazz. His latest album, Panama United, featuring Anthony Fung (drums), Eunjeong Hwong (piano) and James Dale (bass) covers traditional Panamanian rhythms within his original compositions, aiming to preserve Panamanian folklore while documenting his firsts travels in the United States.

In 2012, he was admitted with a full scholarship to the Berklee College of Music, where he earned a double degree in Performance and Jazz Composition. During these years of study, Batista had the honor of learning from some of the world’s most notable musicians such as Danilo Pérez, John Patitucci, Ben Street, Joe Lovano and Marco Pignataro.

While completing his studies at Berklee, Samuel worked as coordinator of international auditions at the Panama Jazz Festival, and collaborated in educational activities as musical director, arranger and orchestrator for American vibraphonist Stefon Harris and Spanish singer Miguel Bosé. Similarly, he experienced his first international exhibitions in places such as Carnegie Hall, Small Jazz Club, Outside The Box Music Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival, and the Kriol Jazz Festival, together with artists such as Paquito D’Rivera, Zahili Gonzales Zamora, Ron Savage, Neal Smith and Antonio Hart.

While working with bassist Oscar Stagnaro and pianist and producer Alain Mallet, and drummer Mark Walker, Batista was appointed to teach at The New England Conservatory for The Preparatory Jazz School and the Continuing Education Program. His 2018 debut album, Panama United, was produced by Alain Mallet and premiered during the 19th edition of the Panama Jazz Festival along with his “Panamanian Sextet”.

In 2018, Batista returned to Panama and toured with Panamanian singer Ruben Blades while working as an educator at the Danilo Perez Foundation. After four years as a piano teacher for children ages three to five, Batista was granted a full scholarship for the graduate program at the Berklee Global Jazz Institute.

Batista currently lives in Boston, where he is working on his upcoming album Rising to Love.

Dwayne Haggins
2024-07-25 13:00 - 15:00, 2024-08-02 19:00 - 21:00
He’s been described as “the love child of Otis Redding and Doc Watson.” “The John Legend of rockabilly.” And recently, “a ‘what-took-you-so-long’ fusion of Elvis and Marvin Gaye.” But he is Dwayne Haggins, and his voice is his own. Whether on the stage of a metropolitan concert hall or the makeshift bandstand of a neighborhood dive, you will find him exploring uncharted musical territories, listening for new ways to stir his influences into this night’s expression of his unique sound – strangely familiar, naturally mysterious, unmistakably his own.

Notably, Haggins has shared the stage with acts such as Joe Bonamassa, Keb Mo, Jimmy Vivino, Chris Lane, Suzanne Santo, and Fitz and the Tantrums. Haggins was signed in November of 2021 and his Verdict debut LP was released in June of 2022 titled “Call Me Boston”.

dwaynehaggins.com

Instagram & FB: @hagginsmusic

BAMS Presents: S.O.U.L.STICE - DJ Z.O.O.M. x Tenille Ja'Nae
2024-07-25 16:00 - 20:00
Dj Z.O.O.M. is a Traveling Professional Dj, and Multiple Award winning Music Producer.Z.O.O.M. is an acronym which means “Zoning Out On Music” (which also happens to describe his open format Dj style).Some of the largest events where Dj Z.O.O.M. has added to the line up are:M.A.C. Cosmetics In Stores (Macy’s Downtown Boston, Prudential Center, Providence Place Mall – thousands of people in the malls).The Adidas 80’s & 90’s Party (William E Reed Auditorium – 2000 plus people).Pentridge Station Pop Up (South West Philly Beer Garden (a couple of hundred in attendance).Strand Theater with Company One (The Boy Who Kissed The Sky Play – Opening Night Not exactly sure, but the theater was packed).The Happy Inn – Philly, PA (Hundreds of people each night of playing there).The Well Brooklyn NYC (about 150 in attendance in the Nightclub when there).Today Dj Z.O.O.M. is still traveling up and down the North East Coast Djing, Hosting, and providing the soundtrack for events of all sizes. For booking info contact titleteamdjs@gmail, or @ZoningOutOnMusic on all social sites.

Singer/Songwriter Tenille Ja’Nae is a rising R&B/soul artist who also fits comfortably in the adult contemporary genre. Born and raised in Rock, AR, Tenille Ja’Nae has taken her experiences to create music that is real, heartfelt, and relevant. Her newest single, Quarantine, was released Oct. 13, 2023, and is one of her most unique tracks to date.

Gaby Cotter
2024-07-26 14:00 - 16:00
Gaby Cotter is a vocalist, songwriter, and educator deeply rooted in her Panamanian heritage and influenced by the rich tapestry of Latin American sounds. Guided by her passion to connect with others through music and driven by a commitment to artistic and personal growth, Gaby weaves powerful narratives that resonate deeply with her audience.

A graduate of Berklee College of Music, she has captivated audiences in Panama, Spain, Italy, and the United States. Her debut album “Cantora,” released in April 2024, features collaborations with Cuban pianist Harold Charon and Panamanian flutist Melvin Lam.

Gaby’s music, available on major streaming platforms, celebrates the strength and resilience of women, offering fresh perspectives on love and relationships.

www.instagram.com/gabycotter

www.gabycotter.com

Lee Fish and Friends
2024-07-26 16:00 - 18:00
Lee Fish will be presenting his exciting new group featuring longtime collaborator and vocalist, Nadia Washington, along with pianist, Jiri Nedoma, and bassist, Devon Gates. Together they will explore Fish’s original music which can best be described as a blend of all his favorite styles – ranging from jazz, soul/r&b to folk and film music. Groove, melody, and communication are the core elements that bring their unique sound to life. Keep an eye out for their future tour dates and more upcoming performances in Boston and NYC.

Tolieth
2024-07-26 18:00 - 20:00
Tolieth is a contemporary soul singer fusing elements of reggae, Afrobeats, and pop into an upbeat live performance. Good vibes and smooth grooves are guaranteed with Tolieth on the mic.

https://tolieth.com/

We Black Folk Kickoff- Presented by BAMS and HipStory
2024-07-27 13:00 - 18:00
Mal Devisa is the songwriting, liberation, and poetry project of multifarious artist Deja Carr. Starting in 2014 and breaking through with 2016’s Kiid, Mal Devisa’s work spans a selfmade spectrum of sound from gravitic, soulful rock to soliloquy to unabashed hip hop. Although known for her unmistakable, smoldering voice and loop-based, bass-forward compositions, Carr’s talents also extend to reaches of spoken word and production, paralleled by aspirations to start both a youth foundation and Afrobeat orchestra.

Cinamon Blair is a singer, songwriter, musician and has been growing her creative expression over the past 40 years. “I love to sing, vocalize harmonies and use music as a tool to self-sooth as well as to build connections, educate and activate myself and the listener into whatever needs to happen.”

Lydia “The LovelySinger” Harrell is one of Boston’s finest musical treasures. Her sultry, soulful voice and evocative songwriting have garnered her the attention and respect of the nation’s finest musicians and venues. Jazz/Soul is where her heart is, however, Lydia has shown an unbreakable ability to mold herself into any musical situation. Be it performing with the Boston Pops, serenading NBA fans with America’s National Anthem, or lending her vocal talents to a chart-topping deep house singles by British record label, Reel People Music, Lydia’s dedication to extracting the pure essence of song goes virtually unmatched.Some of her notable musical accolades include singing lead on a Bob Marley Tribute Album distributed by Sony Music Latin, winning the 2015 Duke Ellington Jazz Vocal Competition, performing at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, NYC (2016), winning the 2017 Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival Voice Competition and winner of the Best Song at the 48 Hour Film Project Boston. More recently, Lydia sang on the 2022 Daytime Emmy Winning song, “Grateful For It All” written by Brad Hatfield, Gaye Tolan Hatfield and Jeff Meegan and aired on The Young and The Restless in May 2021. Lydia was invited to sing backing vocals for the great Jon Batiste in September 2022 along with The Boston Pops accompanying. In addition to her accomplishments as a musical artist, Lydia is a film/TV, voiceover and theatre actress. She has appeared in many commercials, films and theatre productions. She was cast in the New Repertory Theatre production of “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill” playing the role of the one and only Billie Holiday. Unfortunately the show was canceled due to the pandemic. Since then, Lydia has appeared in the 2023 Hulu/20th Century Film, Boston Strangler and performed as Sarah’s Friend in Ragtime: The Symphonic Concert with the Boston Pops. In March 2023, she released her first single that she composed, performed and produced in many years, Don’t Let It. Since being a part of the Club Passim Folk Collective, Lydia has become inspired to record several new projects all coming very soon. Lydia is also a voice instructor at, one of the top music colleges in the world, Berklee College of Music and Berklee Online.

Melo Green is a New England based Indie artist who loves to blend folk, rock and R+B music. You may know of him from his appearances with Kids on A Hill, The Frotations, The Velcro Soul, The C.O.M.P and Boston Common Band. In the words of Thich Nhat Hahn, “Don’t just do something, sit there” and listen to Melo Green.

Prolific collaborator and award-winning multimedia artist Cliff Notez seamlessly manifests a mix of hip hop, jazz, folk, soul and R&B that’s been likened to “Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp A Butterfly, blended with the paranoia of Radiohead’s Kid A.”Their music reveals the repercussions of trauma, exposes the realities of the Black experience,and shares an intimate journey towards healing. Heavy lyrical themes are often juxtaposed with uplifting sounds: bright horns, sparkling keys, snappy percussion and glowing guitar riffs. Cliff Notez’s work has caught the attention of publications like The New York Times, NPR, The Boston Globe, and Boston Herald, among others and have garnered shoutouts from the likes of Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley. They performed at Boston Calling Music Festival in 2022 and have previously shared the stage with Ja Rule and Gym Class Heroes.It’s no surprise Uproxx dubbed Cliff “one of the most remarkable music figures in Boston,” as their influence extends far beyond the hip hop scene. Passionate about social justice and amplifying Black stories, Cliff Notez has worked hard to give back to their local community and to lobby for inclusion. Currently an Assistant Professor at the Berklee College of Music—and having previously taught at Harvard, MIT, Emerson, and Northeastern University—Notez shares their industry expertise in college classrooms and they are working to develop Berklee’s first Bachelor of Arts in Black Music. As the founder of digital media company HipStory, Cliff Notez brought hip hop to one of the largest art museums in the world. Their programming for the Late Nite series at the Museum of Fine Arts created an opportunity for rappers to perform at one of Boston’s most prestigious institutions—giving the genre access to cultural conversations it is often left out of. Cliff Notez was named “Best Musician” and one of the “100 Most Influential Bostonians” by Boston Magazine, and listed among the “50 Most Influential Bostonians” by Boston Common Magazine. With over 11 Boston Music Award nominations and as the winner of “Song of the Year” in 2020 and the coveted “Best New Artist” award in 2018, Cliff Notez continues to be a central figure of the Boston music scene.In 2023 Cliff Notez embarks on an sonically adventurous release schedule of 5 singles that pave the intro for his next opus, All Us in Wonderland, beginning with the first track “Could Be Normal” on Feb. 14th that calls back to the lyrical delivery of Outkast and the wonderment of Prince.

Maz & Bencils
2024-07-27 18:00 - 20:00
Maz is the bridge that links Alternative Hip Hop and the music he grew up on in São Paulo, Brazil. As a son of a DJ, much of that influence bleeds through his music today through neck-snapping production and an out-worldly harness of energy in his lyrics. Whether he is experimenting with the sounds of Alternative Rock or staying true to his roots with Brazilian Funk, his music nowadays breathes a sense of self-awareness and maturity that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences and backgrounds. From performing at Gov Ball 2024 alongside Kidd Revel to intimate art gallery performances in Boston, his ethos of unwavering energy is constantly evolving as his creative approach is just as much about self-understanding as it is about the expression of the process itself.

@maztypebeat everywhere, @madebybencils everywhere

Alyssa Barker
2024-07-28 12:00 - 14:00
Join us for an afternoon of jazz with Alyssa Barker on violin and Elijah Baradi on keys, presented by Jazz Urbane. This talented duo, representing the spirit and innovation of Jazz Urbane, brings a fresh take on classic jazz standards, blending the warm, melodic sound of the violin with the rhythmic and harmonic textures of the piano. Their set features timeless favorites along with surprising jazz interpretations of popular songs, offering something for everyone.

Embark on a musical journey with Alyssa Barker, a violinist celebrated for her transcendent performances that seamlessly blend classical elegance with contemporary innovation. Alyssa specializes in both acoustic and electric violin performances, showcasing her versatility and unique ability to bridge traditional and modern musical worlds. Alyssa’s extraordinary talent has graced iconic stages worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music scene. Her musical odyssey has flourished under the guidance of renowned mentors, including Dr. Bill Banfield, Julius Williams, and original Trans Siberian Orchestra member Mark Wood. Having studied with these luminaries, she not only honed her technical prowess but also developed a unique artistic voice that sets her apart. Mark Wood, praising her exceptional skill and leadership, remarked, “Not only is Alyssa a master on the violin, but she also has tremendous talent in leadership and commitment to her passion, which is music and life.” Known for her collaborative spirit, Alyssa has shared the stage with Grammy Award-winning and nominated artists such as Larry Klein, Allen Stone, Daymé Arocena, Kenny Werner, and Sweet Honey in the Rock. Her performances resonate with a fusion of genres, showcasing a dynamic range that captivates audiences around the globe. Alyssa’s impressive repertoire includes performances at illustrious venues like Carnegie Hall in New York and Symphony Hall in Boston. Beyond the classical realm, she has made significant contributions to the world of film and comedy, featuring on the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack of the Academy Award-contending documentary “Sky Blossom: Diaries of the Next Greatest Generation” and appearing on the latest Sarah Silverman comedy special, “Someone You Love.”Web@alyssabarkermusic Everywhere

The Roland High Life
2024-07-28 16:00 - 18:00
The Roland High Life is a power-pop/indie rock band that formed at Emerson College in 2006. Featuring Thom Dunn (vocals/guitar), Walker Dieckmann (vocals/keys), Chris Correia (drums), Jake WM (bass), and Nick Kefting (guitar/vocals), the band has released three self-produced albums along with a string of singles, and is known for its big hooks and thoughtful songwriting. Whether playing to a packed house at the Silhouette Lounge, an outdoor stage at the JP Music Festival, or at the prestigious Boston Rock & Roll Rumble, the Roland High Life is known for making crowds go, “Wow, they were like, actually pretty good.”

Anabel Gil Diaz
2024-07-31 18:00 - 20:00
Award-winning, multi-instrumentalist and composer, Anabel Gil Diaz was born on 1994 in Havana, Cuba where she graduated from the Superior Institute of Art. She has developed professionally as a flutist, professor and producer with the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic Orchestra under the conduction of Orbert Davis, since November 2014 to date. Her presentations as both classical and jazz, include performances at renowned venues in the US such as Millenium Park, Auditorium Theatre, Navy Pier Concert Hall, Chicago State University Concert Hall , Amarnick-Goldstein Concert Hall, Berklee Performance Center. And in Europe, at the Auditorium “Paco de Lucía”, the Auditorium of Alicante (ADDA), Auditorium of Torrevieja, Spanish Institute of Radio and Television, Jazz Club Square, Galileo Galilei, AC Jazz Recoletos, Berlin Café, National Auditorium of Madrid.

She has received positive critiques by Splash Magazine, Chicago Tribune, El País and El Diario. She received Masterclasses from international artists such as James Galway, Maxance Larrieu, Sibel Pensel, Paquito de Rivera, Sarpay Ozcagatay, Terri Lyne Carrington, Kris Davis, Edmar Colon, Dave Santoro, Marquis Hill, Chris Bullock, Orlando Valle (Maraca), among others. Some of the scholarships she has been granted are the full scholarship from the University of Lynn in Miami; Presidential Scholarship from The Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts; The Artists Society (AIE) scholarship in Madrid, Spain. She participated in the recording for the “New Jazz Standards Vol. 1” album by Terri Lyne Carrington, released on September 2022; and is current flutist of the Film Music Orchestra (SSP) at Berklee College of Music. Most recently, she has been accepted to the Film Scoring Academy of Europe’s Master in Fine Arts program in 2023.

BAMS Presents: S.O.U.L.STICE - Toki Wright x Tricia Reed
2024-08-01 16:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest takes over unCommon bringing Live Music and Beats to the stage.

Toki Wright is a two-time Emmy Award-winning MC, poet, producer, and cultural diplomat. He has received two CLIO Award for advertising with General Mills for the number one worldwide Twitter trending project “Watch the Stove” which was also nominated for a Cannes Lion Award. Wright is currently the chair of the Professional Music Department at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Before relocating he was the Department Head of the United States’ first fully accredited Hip-Hop Studies program at McNally Smith College of Music. The program was awarded the “Best Transformative Higher Learning Model” from the Hip-Hop Education Center at NYU. Toki also facilitated seven Twin Cities Celebration of Hip-Hop Festivals and helped establish “Hip-Hop at H.E.A.L.S,” a program for former child soldiers in Gulu, Northern Uganda.

Toki’s worked with the US State Department, delivered a TED Talk, and ran the youth-led nonprofit YO! The Movement, helping to build community through the arts. Toki is a freelance writer, radio host and has been a judge for NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest, and a community organizer. He’s released albums and film through his media company Soul Tools Entertainment that have charted top 50 on MTV, iTunes, and more. Wright has performed at events like Coachella, Rock The Bells and more while sharing stages with the likes of Lizzo, Terri Lyne Carrington, Atmosphere, the late Sean Price, and J-Live. Toki has released recordings with Talib Kweli, BJ The Chicago Kid, and G Yamazawa to name a few.

Arkansas native, Tricia Reed always saw music as a tool for healing. With musical talent running through her families blood, Reed was destiny to follow a path that centered her craft. Growing up singing in multiple church and gospel bands shaped Reeds voice into a vessel that is reminiscent of classic gospel and R&B singers. Taking great pride in her multifaceted talents such as hair styling, costume design, movement through dance, and beauty her understanding of what it means to work with what you create sets her a part from most. Tricia’s currently working on releasing a new ep.Instagram

Zahili Gonzalez Zamora
2024-08-02 14:00 - 16:00
Zahili Gonzalez Zamora is a Cuban pianist, composer, bandleader, arranger, and educator. She feels most defined by her Cuban heritage and her status as an immigrant. Her passion for music has taken her to Canada, to South East Asia and, now, to the United States. Her rich musical background, career experience and extraordinary improvisation skills render her a leader in the modern Latin jazz idiom and an influential, emulated musician.

​In 2018, her Afro-Cuban jazz Trio, MIXCLA, released its self-titled album, which features her original tunes and arrangements. It has received critical acclaim and earned the attention of major agents locally and internationally. The album has thus far advanced in the world of jazz, adding to her accolades two nominations from the Boston Music Awards (2018 & 2019).

https://www.zahilizamora.com

https://www.instagram.com/zahiligz/

WeAreLoFi
2024-08-02 16:00 - 18:00
Introducing WeAreLoFi, a multi-Grammy-nominated, Golden Globe Award and NAACP image award winning duo who captivates listeners with their signature blend of soulful melodies and laid-back beats. With a passion for creating atmospheric and nostalgic soundscapes, WeAreLofi effortlessly combines elements of jazz, hip-hop, ambient music and MANY more genres to craft a truly unique sonic experience. The group consists of Charles Haynes and Mitch Henry, whose attention to detail and meticulous production techniques result in tracks that transport listeners to a world of tranquility and introspection. With a growing fan base and ever-expanding catalog of mesmerizing compositions, WeAreLofi is making waves in the lo-fi scene. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or a transcendent musical journey, WeAreLofi’s music is the perfect soundtrack for those moments of reflection and escape.

David Lemuel Rivera
2024-08-03 15:00 - 17:00
David Rivera is a Puerto Rican artist with over 15 years of experience spanning composing, arranging, teaching, podcasting, and performing various music styles including Jazz, Latin, Gospel, Rock, and Pop. His band, David Rivera y La Bámbula, blends his relatable lyrics with folkloric urban sounds from the Caribbean, creating innovative rhythms that fuse jazz and robust horn sections. This unique sound appeals to a wide range of music audiences, from pop listeners to jazz aficionados. The group has been selected to perform at the Ecuador Jazz Fest and serves as the house band at the Fairmont San Juan Hotel in Puerto Rico. In March 2023, they were featured in “Sesiones desde la Loma,” attracting over 60,000 views on YouTube.

Rivera has participated in numerous live concerts and studio sessions alongside legends such as Miguel Zenón, Pedro Capo, Obie Bermudez, Luis Enrique, Jerry Medina, William Cepeda, and Gonzalo Grau. He first gained recognition as the creator and host of the podcast “Akulkul,” where he explores the creative processes of each guest artist.

Brooke Annibale Band
2024-08-03 18:00 - 20:00
This will be a solo performance by indie pop-folk singer-songwriter and guitarist, Brooke Annibale. Not confined by any one genre, Brooke’s expressive and beautifully thoughtful songwriting creates a dreamy, dark, and enticing sonic landscape. Her songs have been placed on many TV shows including Grey’s Anatomy, Pretty Little Liars, and One Tree Hill. Brooke has recently performed on SiriusXM The Coffee House, AudioTree Live, Paste and more. ​Brooke’s new album Better By Now is out now.

http://brookeannibale.com

http://instagram.com/brookeannibale

http://facebook.com/brookeannibale

http://twitter.com/brookeannibale

tik tok @brookeannibale

Gale The Band
2024-08-05 17:00 - 19:00
At the corner of soft rock and Americana is Gale the Band — a five-piece group of friends that have played original music since 2019. Inspired by Fleetwood Mac, Dawes, and more, songwriters Abby Utter (vocals and guitar) and Evan Molinari (bass) explore themes of longing, self-doubt, and righteous anger. Tim Chamberlain (drums), Mandy Cook (vocals), and Bill Curley (guitar) bring the songs to life with a driving, bluesy sound and intricate harmonies. With the whisper of regret and the shout of frustration, Gale’s music captures the nuance and compromises of coming of age — and the perpetual joy of electric guitar. The band is recording its debut album — stay tuned to @galetheband on Instagram for updates.

Manuela Sánchez Goubert - RAÍCES Release & Tour Kickoff
2024-08-06 17:00 - 19:00
pc: @ncast.t

Manuela Sánchez Goubert is a Colombian artist who combines jazz with Latin American folklore, creating a cosmopolitan sound. Manuela and her band belong to a new generation, who–inspired by the folkloric traditions of the 50’s–propose new compositions with a modern touch, nourished by jazz reharmonizations. Manuela is a Colombian artist who combines jazz with Latin American folklore, creating a cosmopolitan sound. She studies at the Berklee Global Jazz Institute led by Maestro Danilo Pérez and Patricia Zárate, where she hones her social activism skills by engaging in community outreach programs, participating in social justice initiatives, and collaborating on projects that use music as a tool for social change. Furthermore, she is an ambassador for the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation and participates in the Foundation’s 2024 “Leading Ladies of Entertainment” Program.

Born and raised in the Colombian Andes, Manuela moved to New York City as a teenager, where she was introduced to the jazz scene by mentors like Lucía Pulido and Lauren Kinhan. She has performed in major venues around the world, including the Panamá Jazz Festival, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and Radio City Valencia alongside world-renowned artists such as Andrés Cepeda, Luciana Souza, Olga Román, and New York Voices. Manuela is about to release her first album of original songs, which will include a tour throughout the Americas.

Pre-Save RAÍCES Now!Fund the RAÍCES Tour

Ron Reid
2024-08-07 18:00 - 20:00
Ron Reid is a bassist, steel drummer, educator and composer. The Trinidadian musician is also a Professor of Contemporary Writing and Production at Berklee College of Music. He has performed with Randy Weston, Carmen Lundy, Dave Samuels Caribbean Jazz Project as well as a host of notable calypso and soca artists. He has three CDs as a leader, the most recent ‘Precious Metals’ was released on the Jazz Urbane label. Ron also leads the Sunsteel Quintet in which he exclusively plays steel pans.

ronreid.com

Instagram – @ronreidmusic

Facebook – Ron Reid

BAMS Presents: S.O.U.L.STICE - Toki Wright x The East West Collective
2024-08-08 16:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest takes over unCommon bringing Live Music and Beats to the stage.

Toki Wright is a two-time Emmy Award-winning MC, poet, producer, and cultural diplomat. He has received two CLIO Award for advertising with General Mills for the number one worldwide Twitter trending project “Watch the Stove” which was also nominated for a Cannes Lion Award. Wright is currently the chair of the Professional Music Department at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Before relocating he was the Department Head of the United States’ first fully accredited Hip-Hop Studies program at McNally Smith College of Music. The program was awarded the “Best Transformative Higher Learning Model” from the Hip-Hop Education Center at NYU. Toki also facilitated seven Twin Cities Celebration of Hip-Hop Festivals and helped establish “Hip-Hop at H.E.A.L.S,” a program for former child soldiers in Gulu, Northern Uganda.

Toki’s worked with the US State Department, delivered a TED Talk, and ran the youth-led nonprofit YO! The Movement, helping to build community through the arts. Toki is a freelance writer, radio host and has been a judge for NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest, and a community organizer. He’s released albums and film through his media company Soul Tools Entertainment that have charted top 50 on MTV, iTunes, and more. Wright has performed at events like Coachella, Rock The Bells and more while sharing stages with the likes of Lizzo, Terri Lyne Carrington, Atmosphere, the late Sean Price, and J-Live. Toki has released recordings with Talib Kweli, BJ The Chicago Kid, and G Yamazawa to name a few.

The East West Collective is a r&b Chinese fusion group. We hope to reimagine traditions and bridge the east and west through fusing Chinese music with r&b, neo soul, and gospel music.Betty Ding 修华 is a 26 year old r&b singer-songwriter and Voice Performance student at Berklee College of Music. She is the singer and band leader of the East West Collective. With an introspective lyrical writing style, her music explores themes of peace, spirituality, and healing. Through her music, she hopes to reclaim her culture, reinterpret traditions and push the boundaries of Chinese music.

PC: Mia Michael

Leo Blanco
2024-08-10 13:00 - 15:00
The music of pianist and composer Leo Blanco pulses with global rhythmic elements influenced equally by his South American roots and European classical traditions interwoven with improvisatory developments.

In 1997 Blanco became the first Latin American to win to the prestigious Boston Jazz Society Award. The next year, he received the Billboard Grant Award for his commitment, achievement and contribution to society through music. Currently, he is a faculty member at Berklee College of Music. Most recently, Leo was a 2021 recipient of the Mass Cultural Council Award.

https://www.leoblanco.com/home-english
