Emerson College UnCommon Corner

unCommon Stage and Harpoon Beer Adjusted Hours for May 23rd
2024-05-23 16:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
Due to weather, the unCommon Stage and Harpoon Beer Garden will open at 4 PM today, Thursday, May 23rd. We look forward to seeing you at the Garden for BAMS Fest and brews at from 4 PM – 9 PM!

BAMS Fest - Toki Wright x Safari & the Beat Explorers
2024-05-23 16:00 - 20:00
BAMS Fest takes over unCommon Stage bringing Toki and Safari & the Beat Explorers 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.

Anabel Gil Diaz
2024-05-22 18:00 - 20:00, 2024-05-12 12:00 - 14:00
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.

Zack Bolles Band
2024-05-21 17:00 - 19:00
The Zack Bolles Band is a folk rock trio featuring Abe Dewing on fiddle, Ed Cardenas on cajon and Zack Bolles on guitar.

www.zackbolles.com

@zackbollesband

Brooke Annibale
2024-05-19 15:00 - 17:00
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

Tweets by brookeannibale

tik tok @brookeannibale

The ZYG 808
2024-05-19 12:00 - 14:00
The ZYG 808 (pronounced ‘Zee Why Gee’ Eight-0h-Eight) is a Grammy nominated Soul Poet music maker (musician, composer, producer, vocalist, DJ), and recording artist of Indie Groove, Alternative Pop &, Rare Groove/Funk, Afrobeats, and Hip-Hop. A leading figure in the Thump & Soul music movement; he is definitely doing his part to bring the good vibes to the people.

Maz & Bencils
2024-05-18 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

Palo Rosa y Cuerdas ft. Gaby Cotter
2024-05-18 15:00 - 17:00
Experience the mesmerizing fusion of Afro rhythms, classical guitar, and Cuban Tres improvisations in every performance.

The trio is brought to you by Iris, a Cuban multi-instrumentalist, arranger, and composer whose work in this project showcases a passion for classical repertoire and Afro-Latin rhythms, as well as the storytelling of folk music, blending tradition with innovation. Iris, on guitar, alongside incredible artists such as Olivia Soler and Rafael Heredia, creates a joyful journey for audiences to enjoy.

Kristalis and the Latin Breeze Band
2024-05-18 13:00 - 15:00
Introducing the vibrant rhythms and soulful melodies of Kristalis and Latin Breeze, a Latin band whose music embodies the rich cultural tapestry of the Caribbean islands. Formed against sun-kissed beaches and bustling streets, Sabor Caribeño infuses traditional Latin rhythms with modern flair, creating an irresistible fusion that transports audiences to the heart of the tropics.Led by seasoned musicians hailing from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia, Latin Breeze is a musical mosaic, blending salsa, Jazz, and Latin Jazz into a harmonioussymphony of sound. With each member bringing their unique style and expertise to the stage, the band creates an electrifying atmosphere that captivates audiences of all ages.From intimate venues to large-scale festivals, Latin Breeze delivers performances that are asinfectious as they are exhilarating. With infectious energy and irresistible grooves, their musictranscends language barriers, bringing people together in celebration of life, love, and theuniversal language of music.

Emerson Cabaret!
2024-05-17 18:00 - 21:00
unCommon Stage is excited to host its first ever Emerson Cabaret Night, curated by Professor Ilana Ransom Toeplitz! With performances from Emerson’s very own Musical Theatre Class of 2024, this evening will be be sure to leave a smile on your face, a tear in your eye, and a laugh in your heart. Join us for a selection of contemporary musical theater hits and trivia!

Artists

Jules Ferolie, Sam Guida, Natalie Taylor, Amaris Rios, Lily Bucko, Max Connor, Jasmine Gelfer, Elliana Karris, Wes Mahon

Lee Fish and Friends
2024-05-17 16:00 - 18:00
Lee Fish will be presenting his exciting new trio featuring bassist/vocalist, Devon Gates and saxophonist, Edmar Colon. 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.

Gaby Cotter
2024-05-17 14:00 - 16:00
Gaby Cotter is a Boston-based Panamanian singer, songwriter, and educator. Her work mixes the different colors of Latin-American sounds with jazz, blues, pop, and R&B. As a result, a mature musical proposal fascinating even the most knowledgeable listener.

Her new Album is called “Cantora” and is available on every online platform, including Spotify.

www.instagram.com/gabycotter

www.gabycotter.com

unCommon Stage and Harpoon Beer Garden Closed
2024-05-16 12:00 - 21:00
Due to weather, the unCommon Stage and Harpoon Beer Garden will be closed. Live performances from BAMS Fest have been rescheduled and we hope to see you tomorrow!

Sam Spear
2024-05-15 18:00 - 20:00
By:PenelopeSantana

The Sam Spear Quinet delivers hard-hitting bop, soulful swing, and blistering ballads. Composed of two saxes, piano, bass, and drums, the group performs an eclectic mix of original tunes and cleverly crafted arrangements of jazz standards.

https://samspearmusic.com/

Facebook: Sam Spear Music

Instagram: @sam_spear_music

Toki Wright
2024-05-12 14:00 - 16:00, 2024-05-09 17:00 - 19:00, 2023-10-28 15:00 - 17:00, 2023-10-27 18:00 - 20:00
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 Femmes
2024-05-11 18:00 - 20:00, 2023-10-31 18:00 - 20:00, 2023-10-28 18:00 - 20:00
The Femmes are an all-woman and non-binary wedding band specializing in songs by female and non-binary artists. When you’re at a Femmes show, you’re at a high energy concert experience. Epic sing-alongs, expertly crafted harmonies, and musicians who absolutely LOVE to interact with the audience, the Femmes are Boston’s go-to women’s party band! Our roster includes Berklee alumni, touring artists, veteran wedding band performers, and pit band musicians with over 10 years of professional experience.

Social Media: @thefemmesband

Website: thefemmesband.com

Fabiola Méndez
2024-05-11 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

Facebook

Instagram

Proyecto Blue Island
2024-05-11 13:00 - 15:00
The Blue Island Project is an exciting quartet formed in Boston in 2019 by the talented Cuban Pianist, Singer, and Composer Anibal Cruz.

The band’s performances are always a treat for audiences who appreciate music that is both vibrant and soulful. The repertoire is as diverse as its members, and takes you on a journey of Anibal’s influences from classical music training back in Cuba to jazz and blues at Berklee, making his sound in this project a unique mix of Afro-cuban and Brazilian rhythms, Gospel, and Jazz. Anibal is in the process of creating the first album for Blue Island, which will feature amazing guest artists from all over the world.

https://claveandbluesproductions.com/theblueislandproject

Daniel Sturgis
2024-05-10 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

Sheryl Bailey & Tim Miller Duo
2024-05-10 16:00 - 18:00
Modern jazz guitarists, Sheryl Bailey and Tim Miller join forces for explorations in melody and contemporary harmony via old favorites and new standards.

sherylbailey.com

www.facebook.com/SizzlingGuitarGoddess

twitter.com/SherylBailey

www.instagram.com/gtrnerd

Zahili Gonzalez Zamora
2024-05-10 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/

Soulelujah
2023-10-30 17:00 - 20:00
Formed in 2003 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Soulelujah is an all-vinyl DJ collective and dance party that has been spinning the finest soul, funk, and R&B 45s, along with other slabs of wax, for the past two decades. Playing freshly-unearthed gems to solid favorites, this award-winning dance party has become a Boston-area staple, captivating dance-ready crowds with sweet soul grooves and infectious funk that gets bodies moving.

What began as a modest gathering at ZuZu in Central Square quickly transformed into a weekly, line-down-the-block beloved Cambridge nightlife institution you had to experience up close and personal. Soulelujah’s room-packing popularity led to its expansion, adding a second space at The Middle East Upstairs. After 15 years of resounding success, earning accolades from the Boston Music Awards, the party moved to The Sinclair in Harvard Square, establishing a vibrant weekly Saturday night residency for five years. Soulelujah has currently set up shop at State Park in Kendall Square, hosting its smooth, pulsating grooves on the third Saturday of each month.

Led by a rotating crew of seasoned resident soul DJs, including Claude Money, Ty Jesso, John Funke, Johnny Stevens, Raleigh Fingers, IPL, and others, Soulelujah thrives on an endless collection of records carefully curated to create an uplifting party like no other. Their deep crate-digging, musical knowledge, and passion for bringing vinyl rarities to light fuel their performances, inviting you to experience a dance night of musical soul bliss that will keep your own soul happy.

https://www.facebook.com/soulelujah

https://www.instagram.com/soulelujah/

Dwayne Haggins
2023-10-28 12:00 - 15:00
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

Catherine Bent
2023-10-27 16:00 - 18:00
Catherine Bent is an English-born cellist and Berklee professor. The two have a musical connection that transcends their backgrounds and crystallizes around their passion for Brazilian choro music. Choro (pronounced “shoh-roh”) is an instrumental music that has its origins in late 1800s Rio de Janeiro. It’s been likened to New Orleans jazz, and shares that tradition’s improvisation, soulfulness, and often irrepressible joyfulness.

https://linktr.ee/catherinebentmusic
