Emerson College UnCommon Corner

Anabel Gil Diaz
2024-08-28 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
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.

The Boundary Objects
2024-08-29 13:30 - 15:30
The Boundary Objects make music at the mythical borders between Bahia and Bamako, between Barcelona and Boston, armed only with guitars a calabash, and all the inputs onstage.

BAMS Presents: S.O.U.L.STICE - Toki Wright X Shandelle
2024-08-29 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.

pc: Dalvin Lopes

Shandelle is a multi-faceted songstress from Somerville, MA. She broke into the scene in 2021 after releasing her debut EP “introspection”. Since then, the weight of her name has grown exponentially— with several prestigious performances (including her first headline show being sold out) and the release of her debut mixtape “CAPSULE_001”. Her reign continues this year with the eclectic release of her “AMOR // SUDOR” single as she hones in on more fresh sounds and styles for her ever-growing audience.

Instagram is @s.handelle Music is on all streaming platforms under Shandelle

Zahili Gonzalez Zamora
2024-08-30 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/

CALO
2024-08-30 16:00 - 18:00
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/

Daniel Sturgis
2024-08-30 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

Magnificent Monster Circus Presented by Puppet Showplace Theater
2024-08-31 12:00 - 13:00
“Magnificent Monster Circus” presented by Puppet Showplace Theater

All ages welcome!

Come one, come all, to a circus like no other! Encounter magnificent creatures from the wilds of your imagination as their quirky human caretaker tries to teach them new tricks. Kids can lend a hand to Eustace the Unicycling Unimonster, make friends with a Fiery Fanged Worm, cheer for Agnes the many-legged Acropod, and more! This colorful, silly, multi-sensory show is a perfect match for our youngest audiences.

All ages welcome, especially enjoyed by ages 3-7Mixed puppetry styles, including table top and direct manipulationLanguage: EnglishFrom Western Mass!

Puppet Showplace Theater presents hundreds of family-friendly performances a year in its cozy theater, located in Brookline Village right across from the Green Line T station. Join us for outstanding puppetry for all ages, creative vacation week programs, puppetry workshops for grown-ups, and more! Learn more at www.puppetshowplace.org and follow us in Instagram @puppetshowplace

After our show, live Latin music curated by Ágora Cultural Architects will begin at 1 PM, with tunes the whole family can enjoy!

This event is free to enjoy (food and beverage is available for purchase).

Georgie Rodríguez
2024-08-31 13:00 - 15:00
Georgie Rodriguez is an accomplished Puerto Rican multi-instrumentalist with a solid bass and guitar career. He is also an experienced composer, arranger, music producer/director, andrecording musician. His trajectory includes a Grammy Award for Best Tropical Album (2017)¿Dónde Están? with Guasábara Combo, and Latin Grammy Awards for Best Salsa Album(2010) and Best Merengue Album (1997).Self-taught and a lifelong learner, Georgie has developed a unique music style reflecting hisorigins and expansive musical journey across styles and genres. From his childhood influences with gospel music and the Puerto Rican cuatro to his latest novel salsa arrangements and compositions for chamber orchestra, Georgie is a well-rounded musician who masters tropical music, jazz, Puerto Rican and Caribbean genres, and diverse pop styles. Georgie identifies pianist and arranger José Lugo as a significant influence for his vision of preserving traditions while innovating and maintaining high musical standards and rigor.Georgie performs and produces music as a member of prominent Puerto Rican ensembles:Guasábara Combo, Pedro Guzmán’s Jíbaro Jazz, Ángel David Mattos & Jazz Boricua, PabloRosario’s Orinoco and Tatoo’s Sextet Tribute to Joe Cuba. Throughout his career, he hasperformed and recorded with renowned artists, including; Alexandre Pires, Andy Montañez,Cheo Feliciano, Danny Rivera, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Hermán Olivera, Isaac Delgado, JerryMedina, Luis Perico Ortiz, Olga Tañón, Rafael Dávila (tenor), Roberto Rohena, Tego Calderón,Trina Medina and Vicente García.

The Blue Island Project
2024-08-31 15:00 - 17:00
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

The Femmes
2024-08-31 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

Allston Christmas @ UnCommon Stage!
2024-09-01 13:00 - 21:00
Get ready to celebrate the annual Allston Christmas extravaganza with UnCommon Stage!

This unique Boston tradition marks the time when students move in and out, leaving behind a treasure trove of discarded items on the streets.As Boston buzzes with renewed energy, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable day of festivities. Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music performances, refreshing sips of Harpoon’s limited run Allston X-mas New England IPA, and mouthwatering culinary delights from the renowned Rosa Mexicano. This celebration captures the essence of Boston’s lively spirit during this exciting transition period.The excitement kicks off at 12 PM with our much-anticipated swap meet. We encourage all attendees to bring a bag and contribute their gently used items to the exchange. This is your chance to declutter while potentially discovering hidden gems! However, to ensure a smooth event, we kindly request that you limit your contributions to items no larger than a standard carry-on luggage. Let’s embrace the spirit of recycling and community sharing that defines Allston Christmas!

1-4 PM – HipStory Presents Beat Tape Matinee

Join HipStory for an afternoon of beats and beer on the Common!

Beat Tape Matinee is an event rooted in Hip Hop self-made roots. We look to highlight the bedroom producers, dj/producers, loopers and everything in between in our latest HipStory event series.

Raised in Brockton, Lilah’s latest single, “Brolic Freestyle,” showcases her captivating cadences and unique rhyme patterns, setting her apart from the crowd. Her music delves into personal experiences, shedding light on important issues and celebrating individuality.Beyond her solo work, Lilah’s contributions as a writer and producer have been recognized on various projects such as BLK ODYSSY’s “Diamonds & Freaks”, GRIP’s “Five & A F*** You”, Khary’s “THIS IS WEIRD”, and many more.With Lilah’s infectious energy, undeniable talent, and commitment to authenticity, she is undoubtedly an artist to watch. She continues to make waves in the music scene, spreading joy and creativity to her audience.IG : @longlivelilah Twitter: @longlivelilah

One of the keys to longevity is keeping the passion for your craft alive and that’s precisely how DJ Manipulator has managed to maintain his career. Hailing from Hempstead, NY, but now residing in Worcester, MA, Manipulator is a hip-hop DJ and producer who has steadily built up a solid repertoire of releases and live shows since 2012.Having first been drawn to hip-hop as an 8-year-old boy, thanks to his older brother’s influence, Manipulator first tried his hand at rapping, graffiti and breaking, before realizing his real passion resided with DJing and beat-making.Skip to 2002 and he acquired his first set of turntables, with his first production setup following a year later, and drawing on influences from artists such as J Dilla, Madlib and The Alchemist, Manipulator set about honing his skills in both disciplines. Having followed his natural desire to work with samples, he also embarked on a lifelong crate digging obsession.Fast forward to now and that obsession has paid off, with a stack of notable releases under his belt, including two instrumental projects, The Synth Tape and The Soviet Tape. The two releases provided an insight into Manipulator’s beat-making prowess and demonstrated the value of his sample hunting.

Gibson Alcott, professionally known as GIB DJ is a producer and composer and DJ from Allston, MA. With over a decade of experience working with artists, he has carefully carved out his lane with an attention to sonic bliss. His dedication to creation has landed him placements with legends like Young Jeezy, current icons like Telfar Clemens as well as most of Boston and beyond’s creative scene (including 3 BMA winners). His emphasis on collaboration and an open minded approach when it comes to genre and technique are integral to his process for whoever comes to his studio for a session.

4-6 PM – The Zack Bolles Band

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

6-8 PM – Bencils

Bencils is a multimedia artist who works with a close team of like-minded peers that strive to push the boundaries of what is expected from them during their developmental years.@madebybencils everywhere
