Live Performance of UCLA's World Music Festival Makes a Comeback this Spring
The Spring Festival of World Music is set to make a triumphant return to Schoenberg Hall from May 13th to May 22nd, marking a much-anticipated return to live performances. This year's festival promises to be a celebration of global musical diversity, showcasing a variety of ensembles that will captivate audiences with their unique sounds and traditions.
The festival kicks off on Friday, May 13th, with the Music of India and China ensembles. The Music of India Ensemble, led by skilled students playing the sitar and tabla, will present a selection of ragas in the North Indian classical tradition. Meanwhile, the Music of China Ensemble will take audiences on a journey back to the sixteenth century with texts from Kun opera arias.
On Saturday, May 14th, the festival continues with the Music of Bali, Java, and Thailand ensembles. The Music of Bali Ensemble, renowned for its fast tempos, abrupt changes of texture, and costumed dancers, will perform Balinese gamelan music. The Music of Java Ensemble, known for their traditional Javanese music, will also grace the stage with pieces from the traditional Javanese repertoire.
The following day, Sunday, May 15th, will see the Music of Mexico Ensemble take centre stage. Directed by 2008 Grammy winner Jesús Guzmán, the ensemble promises to deliver a memorable performance of Mexico's rich musical heritage.
The festival will conclude on Sunday, May 22nd, with the Klezmer Music Ensemble and the African American Music Ensemble. The African American Music Ensemble, led by Dr. Diane White-Clayton, known as Dr. Dee by her students, will perform the full range of African American sacred choral music. One such freedom song, "Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'Roun'", will be performed with new lyrics written by Dr. Dee. Each verse of the song will end with the refrain, "March into my destiny," encouraging resilience after the past few years.
All concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. and are free and open to the public. The festival organisers encourage everyone to attend and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of global music on offer. For specific details about the 2022 event, it would be best to consult past programs or contact the organisers directly.
Dr. Diane White-Clayton, director of the African American Music Ensemble, stated that the students are the real heroes of the festival. "The messages of yesteryears propel us through the hardships of today," she said, emphasising the enduring power of music to inspire and unite.
This year's Spring Festival of World Music promises to be a truly unforgettable event, showcasing the very best of global music and culture. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the world through the lens of music.
The Music of Mexico Ensemble, directed by Grammy winner Jesús Guzmán, will entertain the audience with a performance of Mexico's rich musical heritage on Sunday, May 15th. The festival will culminate with the Klezmer Music Ensemble and the African American Music Ensemble on Sunday, May 22nd, featuring the latter performing the freedom song "Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'Roun'" with new lyrics written by Dr. Dee, encouraging resilience after the past few years.
