American Music

[Feb 4]

Performer, entrepreneur, cultural visionary and critically acclaimed pianist Lara Downes is recognized as one of the most exciting and communicative classical artists of her generation. Her artistry has been called “luscious, moody and dreamy” by the New York Times and “ravishing” by Fanfare Magazine. Lara Downes will perform at Mendocino College, Center Theater on Sunday February 4, at 3:00 pm. Come early and socialize with the UCCA Board members.

The concert will feature American Music, from traditional tunes to George Gershwin, Leonard Bernstein and various other American composers. She will bring music and songs that reflect our American life, which as Lara says: “has a complicated history, full of contrasts and contradictions, just like my own, and I’ve learned that what is most beautiful about me comes down to my contradictions and contrasts.” She is a laureate of the 2016 Sphinx Medal of Excellence award and was awarded the Innovator of Year award in 2017 by University of California, Davis.

Born in San Francisco and raised in Europe, Lara’s roots are diverse and distinct. Her recent chart-topping release A Billie Holiday Songbook has been called “possibly the most intriguing Holiday tribute” by Jazz Weekly. Her 2016 release, America Again was in many ways the coming-of-age memoir of an artist who has found her own way and carved her own path through American music. Her upcoming Sony Music debut album FOR LENNY, a Leonard Bernstein centennial tribute, was awarded the 2017 Classical Recording Foundation Award. It will be released February 9, 2018. The recording features guest artist from across genres and generations: opera legend Thomas Hampson, roots singer Rhiannon Giddens to beatboxing superstar Kevin “K.O.” Olusola.

The Ukiah Concert Association has been presenting nationally acclaimed talent since 1947. This all-volunteer nonprofit’s mission is to build and maintain a permanent concert audience and cultivate an interest in fine music among the citizens of the community and surrounding area. It is also their goal to encourage music appreciation in the schools of the community. Advanced tickets are available at Mendocino Book Company and Dig! Music in Ukiah, Mazahar in Willits or www.ukiahconcerts.org.

Adult Single Tickets are $30 and Youth (under 18) $10.

For more information call 707-463-2738.