A performance reunion of sorts bringing together opera star J'Nai Bridges and Grammy(c)-winning jazz trailblazer Ulysses Owens Jr., San Francisco Performances' artist-in-residence. Bridges and Owens were students together before their paths diverged, each becoming luminaries in their respective genres.
They'll be joined by a musical ensemble for Notes on Hope, juxtaposing works by 20th century French composers, Duke Ellington, and traditional spirituals that illuminate a sense of optimism.
Grammy(c) Award-winning American mezzo-soprano J'Nai Bridges is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after talents of her generation. During the current performance season, she appears in one of her signature roles as Carmen with debut engagements at the Arena di Verona, Canadian Opera Company, and a return to Dutch National Opera, and Lyric Opera of Chicago. She also debuted with the Seattle Opera in a concert performance of Samson et Delilah Ms. Bridges' recent seasons have included her participation in numerous world premiere engagements, and as a guest artist at The Kennedy Center's 50th Anniversary Season.
From Grammy(c) Award-winning performances with Christian McBride's acclaimed Trio and Big Band to world tours with Kurt Elling and Joey Alexander, Ulysses Owens Jr.'s artistic command of percussion has earned him positions in some of the most successful jazz ensembles of the 21st century. His reverence for tradition distinctly manifests in his straight-away playing style, but it is the versatility of his talent-his unique ability to manipulate texture and create penetrating musical shapes-that attracts the attention of jazz's heavy hitters. His performance catalog includes collaborations with Nicholas Payton, Wynton Marsalis, Monty Alexander, Dianne Schuur, Renee Fleming, and Mulgrew Miller, just to name a few.
$65/$55/$45.