February 8, 2007

An Evening with Mia Doi Todd

Mia Doi Todd will perform a concert at the Japanese American National Museum on Thursday, February 8 at 7:30 p.m.  A native of Los Angeles, Mia Doi Todd has released several albums of her own genre-defying music. Producing images both vibrant and subtle, the singer-songwriter has performed around the world including collaborations with artists ranging from Saul Williams to Folk Implosion. Critics have described her voice as a "shocking beauty" and "entirely remarkable." Don't miss this opportunity to see one of LA's most memorable talents. Reservations recommended.  Sponsored, in part, by The James Irvine Foundation and Department of Cultural Affairs, City of Los Angeles.  The show is free with admission to the Museum. For reservations, which are required, please call 213-625-0414

Kodo @ UCLA’s Royce Hall

The Taiko ensemble, Kodo, will perform at UCLA’s Royce Hall, on February 9 & 10 at 8:00 p.m. and on February 11 at 2:00 p.m. Translating as "heartbeat" or "children of the drum," Kodo generates waves of intense rhythmic percussion to create a primal musical experience. Formed in 1981 by a community of people who sought to preserve the traditional Japanese performing arts, these percussionists from Japan’s Sado Island electrify audiences with their virtuosity, enormous strength and stamina. "Kodo reminds its audience that, above all, its music is a matter of flesh and blood, wood and stretched skin. Kodo can raise the roof, but can also show extraordinary finesse." [The New York Times]. Always a crowd-pleaser, this one-of-a-kind ensemble makes its triumphant return to Royce Hall, promoting global unity through the pulse of a powerful drum.  Royce Hall is at 340 Royce Drive in Los Angeles.  For more info, visit uclalive.org.
  

Fujiko Hemming in Orange County

Internationally acclaimed pianist Fujjko Hemming returns to LA after three years since her last solo recital at UCLA. This time she is here to perform Beethoven’s Concerto No. 5 "Emperor" with the Glendale Symphony Orchestra conducted by Steven Mercurio. The show will also feature Sumi Jo, a soprano soloist from Korea, who will also perform with the Glendale Symphony Orchestra.  Her set will feature works from Donizetti, Verdi, Rossini, and Bernstein. The concert will be held at the beautiful new Reneé & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall of the Orange County Performing Arts Center.  Tickets range from $25 to $85.  For tickets:  1-888-507- 3287 All American Ticket.  For More information, try  fujiko-hemming.com or samonpromotion.com.

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Yoshida Brothers @ Malibu Performing Arts Center
  

The Yoshida Brothers will be in concert at the Malibu Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, February 14.  Superstars in their native Japan, young Tsugaru-shamisen virtuosos Ryoichiro and Kenichi Yoshida have effected nothing short of a cultural revolution with a muscular reinvention of the ancient three-stringed instrument akin to a rustic three-stringed banjo. By coaxing startlingly vivid sounds out of their timeless instruments, they have reinvigorated the Tsugaru-shamisen for a new generation, incorporating elements of jazz, American folk, pop, Latin music, blues and more into their unique musical tapestry.  The Malibu Performing Arts Center is in Downtown Malibu at 23825 Stuart Ranch Road.  For more info, go to yoshidabrothers.com or call 310-456-6722..

February 25

The Gary Fukushima Jazz Trio will perform at the Japanese American National Museum on Sunday, February 25 at 2:00 p.m. Gary Fukushima is a pianist known for bringing a fresh take to cherished standards, and he also creates dynamic original compositions. Grab a cup of coffee and bite to eat at the Terasaki Garden Cafe featuring Chef Hirose, and then take in a bit of jazz by one of the city's rising stars. Free with Museum admission. Please visit janm.org for museum hours, admission rates, and directions.