January 2015

February 2015

March 2015
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  • 8:00 PMTHE PHILADELPHIA PHENOMENA: Elliott Levin, Jamaaladeen Tacuma, Calvin Weston
  • 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM THE PHILADELPHIA PHENOMENA:Elliott Levin- reeds, wordsJamaaladeen Tacuma- bassCalvin Weston- drumsAll photos in this listing by Jaci Downs Photography - www.JaciDowns.comPeople may be aware of The Sound Of Philadelphia, The Philadelphia Story, The Philadelphia Experiment, even The Young Philadelphians... but  THE PHILADELPHIA PHENOMENA is the unique high-energy, earth-rooted, astral travelling original and spontaneous harmolodic compositional sounds of these 3 musicians born and long-based in Philadelphia but extending throughout the World, if not the Universe.ELLIOTT LEVIN:If one was to believe descriptive snippets, the thing to do when Elliott Levin approaches is find a place to hide. In a worst case scenario, try to climb a tree -- at least, that is the advice hikers would receive about the oncoming approach of something "ferocious...frenzied...bearlike." However, the comparison with bears is based on the size and appearance of the Philadelphia performer, while the other adjectives are filling one of their more esoteric purposes in the English language, attempting to describe just what it is free jazz performers do when they blow into their horns. Whatever it is, Levin does a lot of it, on tenor saxophone and flute. He also has a quite active career as a published poet and likes to combine the two aesthetics in his performances, much to the delight of the growing live poetry audience and to the chagrin of hipsters who insist jazz poetry is a form of torture, worse than cold showers. Other listeners might find the entire free jazz experience itself torture, in which case it's back to the beginning as far as advice regarding Levin: there is nothing watered-down or weak about his performances, no attempt to make the music a bit more accessible to the novices, tender-hearted or just plain wimpy. He also doesn't seem to play music as if it was connected to some kind of career strategy, other than to just play all the time. Besides playing professionally with a variety of groups, embarking on semi-regular journeys around the country, he also jams. No description of the Philly jazz scene exists that does not include something along the lines of "And Elliott Levin has been known to sit in, buggin' out with his sax and flute..." A Philadelphia drummer described Levin as "the guy that calls you at two in the morning, wanting you to haul your drums over to some jam session."Levin grew up in Philly, but studied music and creative writing on the west coast at the University of Oregon. He took private lessons with a former Philadelphia Orchestra saxophonist, Michael Guera, and embarked on further research with the great jazz pianist, Cecil Taylor, in whose groups Levin has also performed. Claire Polin is Levin's primary instructor on flute. The weekend grocery list of Levin credits includes playing with Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes for a decade as the saxophonist in the Sound of Philadelphia band, as well as with Odean Popes' Saxophone Choir, Tyrone Hill, Don Preston, Scram!, New Ghost, Atzilut (Fourth World), Talking Free Bebop, and various collaborations with bassist Jamaladeen Tacuma. Levin's gigs with Taylor included the groups Phthongas and Unit Core Ensemble, and he can be heard on the Taylor FMP album Live in Berlin. On the poetry scene he has performed with Miguel Algarin, Gloria Tropp, Mbali Umoja, Marty Watt, and Frank Messina. Levin has published several books of his verse, which also appears in publications such as L.A. Weekly, Blue Beat Jacket, The Painted Word, Po' Fly, Vital Pulse, and Poets and Prophets. He has received awards from New American Radio in New York, The City of Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department, the Pennsylvania Council for the Arts, and the California Endowment for the Humanities.JAMAALADEEN TACUMA:Few musicians leave their audiences with a feeling that they have truly witnessed something amazing. Artist/Producer/Performer/Arranger/Innovator AND Bassist - JAMAALADEEN TACUMA does just that. This native Philadelphian has always stretched the old mold of what and how a bassist is supposed to play. Tacuma has simply re-defined his instrument's artistic potential.In the mid 70's, his creatively free approach to the bass caught the eye and ear of the legendary saxophonist Ornette Coleman. Tacuma became a member of Coleman's electric band, Prime Time, he toured with the group and played on some of Coleman's historic recordings such as: "Dancing In Your Head", "Body Meta", and "Of Human Feelings". As a soloist, Tacuma continued to press the musical envelope with his debut album in 1983 entitled simply, "Showstopper". Several records followed, some of which include: Renaissance Man (1984), Music World (1987) and JukeBox (1989), Cosmetic, Boss of The Bass, which confirmed his ability to flip between various musical genres. Even the critics have had high praise for Tacuma's musicianship and artistry. One year he received the highest number of votes ever for an electric bassist in the "Talent Deserving Wider Recognition" category of the Down Beat critics' poll.Tacuma has performed and recorded and collaborated with musicians on nearly every continent such as Japan, Korea, Europe and the Middle East. In September 2007, Jamaaladeen released a new recording entitled "THE FLAVORS OF THELONIOUS MONK RELOADED" paying musical homage to the great pianist composer Thelonious Monk and also releasing a new recording in October 2007 with "FREE FORM FUNKY FREQS" a trio with guitarist Vernon Reid (Living Color),and G. Calvin Weston (John Laurie, Medeski, Martin & Wood) on drums entitled "URBAN MYTHOLOGY" on Thirsty Ear Records. He has also played and produced for many American and European Jazz/Funk musicians. Furthermore, the release "Mirakles" by Derrick Bailey, G. Calvin Weston & Tacuma was cited as one of the "most important recordings of year 2000" by All Music Guide. He also recently completed a recording entitled "DUST" with BAUHAUS member Peter Murphy on the Metropolis label. He is also featured as writer and co-producer on the new 2006 release of the World Saxophone Quartet's album on Justin Time Records entitled "Political Blues" with a song by Jamaaladeen entitled "BLUE DIAMOND" Tacuma has collaborated with a diverse and talented roster of artists: Guitarists Jeff Beck, Carlos Santana, Marc Ribot, James Blood Ulmer, Jean Paul Bourelly and Derek Bailey.He has performed and recorded with saxophonist Pharoah Sanders, Grover Washington Jr., David Murray, Odean Pope, Wolfgang Puschnig, and James Carter. He has worked with orchestras led by Anthony Davis at Carnegie Hall, to recording and performing with the Hip Hop rap group, The Roots, DJ King Britt and DJ Logic. He has even written music for the hit TV show, "The Cosby Show". He has worked with poets Jayne Cortez, Quincy Troupe, Amiri Baraka and co-wrote and co-produced a song entitled "WOMEN FIRST" with the R&B Neo Soul group from Philadelphia, KINDRED (the family soul) on their new CD recording "IN THIS LIFE TOGETHER", on the Hidden Beach/Motown label (2006). Jamaaladeen has recently explored the music of legendary saxophonist, composer John Coltrane with a preview recording and an extended European tour which featured the British saxophonist and BBC award recipient Tony Kofi. Jamaaladeen's FOR THE LOVE OR ORNETTE released 2010 on his own label was a monumental recording made in honor of his mentor Ornette Coleman. In 2013 Jamaaladeen released Bon Vivant his 2nd studio recording with FREE FORM FUNKY FREQS trio with G. Calvin Weston and Guitarist Vernon Reid on his newly formed recording label Jam All Productions.In recent years Jamaaladeen has been gaining recognition from some of the Unites States most prestigious artist foundations, 2011 Jamaaladeen received the Pew Arts & Heritage Award, The Marcus Garvey Foundation Award, Uptown Theater Hall of Fame Award 2014. Jamaaladeen has received composer’s residencies at the prestigious MacDowell Colony , Headlands Center for the Arts, and Civitella Rainier Italy, where he composed a new project he will be presenting in 2015. Staying true to his artistic and experimental approach to music, Tacuma is consistently bringing musical happiness to fans World Wide.CALVIN WESTON:G Calvin Weston was born June 6, 1959 in Philadelphia, PA. He became interested in drums at the age of 6, when he (and his neighbors) discovered his talent for rhythm as he beat on every car on the block. He lived in North Philadelphia where he saw musicians like Stevie Wonder, The Jackson Five and James Brown at the Uptown Theatre. Seeing his attention focused on the drummers, his Father bought him a small set. In high school Calvin learned to read music and played second snare in the drum ensemble. He co-founded the group Bad Influence which played in cabarets and clubs around Philadelphia.At 17, Calvin joined Ornette Coleman's Prime Time Band, with bass player Jamalaadean Tacuma, his close friend from Philly, which toured extensively in North America and Europe. After recording four albums with Prime Time, Calvin went on to play and record with guitarist James “Blood” Ulmer, until he joined John Luries Lounge Lizards in 1990.During the late '90s Calvin recorded and toured with Billy Martin of Medeski Martin and Wood, Tricky, Eyvind Kang, Derek Baily, Mark Ribot, and James Carter. He also played on several movie soundtracks including “Get Shorty.” For his latest project, Calvin Weston's Big Tree, Calvin explores the many musical influences of his career as band leader and composer.He also has a new band with world guitarist, Vernon Reid and bass player, Jamalaadean Tacuma and formed the group freeformfunkyfreqs and there new CD Urban Mythology Volume 1. He also plays with Jean-Paul Bourelly and Melvin Gibbs in the band called Gypsys Reloaded, that toured in March of 2008 and recorded a live CD at the Bimhuis. G. Calvin Weston has played on many recordings including Asmodeus: Book Of Angels Volume 7 with Marc Ribot, Trevor Dunn, and John Zorn.Admission is FREE
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  • 7:00 PMBehind the Walls, Between the Lines
  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

    The place where poetry and social justice collide...

    Behind The Walls, Between The Lines, is a live, gallery-like exhibition of poetry centered on the incarceration and treatment of black and brown bodies in America. Attendees will be able to "view" each piece separately and then experience a collaboration piece at the end of the gallery. 

    Vendors from agencies that work with issues of social justice around the Philadelphia area will be present to showcase and speak about their work. Light refreshments will be served. Participants will have opportunity to network with artists and creator Felicia Henry.

    Tickets: $7 in advance and at the door 

    Get tickets here-------> btw.ticketleap.com/btw

    For more information on Felicia Henry and Behind the Walls, visitwww.feliciahenry.com.

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  • 8:00 PMThe Big Five OH Variety Show
  • 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM

    Five Minute Follies producer and emcee Michael Broussard celebrates his 50th Birthday with a FREE Variety Extravaganza featuring

    JUGGLER AND MAGICIAN AL ANGELLOBelly Dancer FATIMA BASSMAHComedian CRAIG LIGGEONSFlamenco Dancer CAROL BASILIOplus special appearances by Michael Broussard's early 90s band BABELFISH (Karlis Povisils, Edward Atlee, Brian Wilkinson), FAMOUS IN VEGAS founding members LIZ LIXX and ROSS LANDY, SCREAMING LUNCHBOXES founding member ED MARRA, and CHRIS UNRATH (of the legendary MIMIROCK and HELEN BACK & THE STR8 RAZORS). Michael will also be singing a few of his favorite songs. MORE TBA!

    And all of this is FREE! Please note SOME MATERIAL MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AUDIENCES.

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  • 6:00 PMCommunity Vegan Potluck
  • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Please join us for a vegan potluck similar to the super fun potlucks we hosted back in May and December! Children are welcome and encouraged to come. We'll have some interactive fun for all ages!We can accommodate dozens of folks and really want to encourage you to bring guests as well as meet new people. Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/82159732454499Admission is FREE. Please bring a small vegan dish (at least one dish per person) to share, along with a card or sheet of paper listing your ingredients. The Rotunda will provide plates, cups, utensils, etc.
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  • 6:00 PMVeg Eating on the Rise! Talk by Erica Meier of Compassion Over Killing
  • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Whether we’re concerned about our health, animals, or the planet, one of the most effective ways we can make a difference is to choose vegetarian foods. Learn why a growing number of people – including award-winning actress Jessica Chastain, former President Bill Clinton, and NFL player David Carter Jr. – are touting the benefits of meat-free eating and how you can get active in your school or community to put more veg options on the menu in restaurants and cafeterias.Admission is FREE
  • 8:00 PM To Be Young, Black, And Gifted: Words 2 Life Of Fathers To Sons
  • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM National Black Arts Spoken Word TourPresentsTo Be Young, Black, And Gifted: Words 2 Life Of Fathers To SonsShowtimes:  6:30pm and 8:00pm  A performance poetry staged adaptation about the redemption of fatherhood and urbanized boyhood based upon the popular book and spoken word record release entitled "Second Born Son.” Written and adapted by Cali Starks, an Atlanta based emerging actor who has made appearance for radio and television and toured nationally to Georgia, Mississippi, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Louisiana, Tennessee, California, Washington, D.C., Texas, Pennsylvania, amongst other locales. Mr. Starks has starred in the critically acclaimed Hurricane Katrina dramatic play "Wade  in the Water" at the National Black Theatre in New York, the popular play "Oh God Please Send Me a Do Right Man," "From Ancient to Hip Hop" at the National African-American Student Leadership Conference and other national touring productions.  He has produced spoken word CD's from poets who have appeared on cable networks such as HBO, TV One, BET and the Black Family Channel.  His bestselling books and CD releases continue to receive much acclaim since previewing during broadcast media appearances for the NBC Network affiliate and on the Black College Radio Network.  Mr Starks has worked extensively inside juvenile programs mentoring teaching, and tutoring in Philadelphia and Atlanta, with Morehouse School Of Medicine. His latest first person arts/solo performance will kick off a national tour in Philadelphia during January 2016 and is relevant for school aged children, adults and their families.Showtimes:  6:30pm and 8:00pmFor more information contact 267-230-0317,  267-505-1756, or mauricebrianhenderson@yahoo.com$10 Donation per show
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  • 8:00 PMEnemy Territory (1987) and Certain Fury (1985) - Andrew's Video Vault
  • 8:00 PM - 11:30 PM Andrew's Video VaultFREE Screenings Continuous From 8 PM
on the Second THURSDAY of Every Month!
 This program is made possible through the generous support of the
 Cinema Studies Program at the University of Pennsylvania.
 February 12
Two long-lost “salt and pepper” action flicks from the 1980s never released on DVD. 
ENEMY TERRITORY (1987 / 89 minutes) Gary Frank and Ray Parker, Jr. star as an insurance salesman and a phone company worker trapped after dark in an apartment building that is terrorized by a street gang called “The Vampires.” Photographed by Ernest Dickerson (Do The Right Thing) and featuring early appearances by Tony Todd, Stacey Dash and Kadeem Hardison. Directed by Peter Manoogian.
CERTAIN FURY (1985 / 87 minutes) Tatum O’Neal and Irene Cara star in this New World Pictures rip-off of The Defiant Ones. Directed by Stephen Gyllenhaal.
Guest Host and Curator: Mike Dennis of Reelblack Cinema
Co-presented with Irv Slifkin, author of Filmadelphia and Groovy Movies.
 
March 12
PERFECT LIVES (1984 / 175 minutes) An experimental opera for television in seven episodes, Perfect Lives premiered on Great Britain’s Channel Four, and has been called “the most influential music/theater/literary work of the 1980s.” At its center is the hypnotic voice of Robert Ashley, whose continuous song narrates the events of the story — a 1980s update of the mythology of small town America.
Guest Host and Curator: Megan Bridge of fidgetAdmission is FREE
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  • 8:00 PMGoldLink, Rome Fortune, Kari Faux, LiberalArts
  • 8:00 PM - 11:30 PM The rap of the future is here February 13th. You don't wanna miss this. GoldLink, Rome Fortune, Kari Faux, LiberalArts ** tickets available in Houston Hall near the info desk ** Doors 7:45 pm // Show 8:00 Penncard: $5 adv // $10 door $15 public Pregame playlist: https://soundcloud.com/jazzngrooves/sets/feb-13th-goldlink-rome-fortune https://soundcloud.com/jazzngrooves http://www.jazzandgrooves.com/ Pix from last time: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.627024240741757.1073741832.154204171357102&type=3 ** alcohol is not permitted at this event **
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  • 3:00 PMTouch of Shakespeare
  • 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM The Rita Jones Dance and Drama CompanypresentsA Touch of Shakespeare Dancers and Actors portray Ophelia, Juliet, Othello, and more.General admission: $10Seniors and students: $5
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  • 6:30 PMPOSTPONED!! The ARTiculate Networking Mixer
  • 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM ** Sorry but we are POSTPONING due to harsh & dangerous weather conditions.**Mix business with absolute pleasure as you rub elbows with established & rising artists, designers & entertainment professionals!CelandraLIVE Entertainment Group LLC. & Kimistry Events present The ARTiculate Networking Event Comedy byComedian Raul GomezMusic, Complimentary Gourmet Desserts & Lite Bites Ice Breakers & Art RaffleSponsored in part by UPENN$5 WITH Business Card[$10 without Business Card]It’s time to Celebrate the Flame that burns in each of us to continue creating beautiful art, music & film in the Philadelphia metro area!Who Should Attend: All Art & Entertainment industry professionals in the metro Philly including Producers | Directors | Writers | Editors | Videographers | Stage & Set Designers | Musicians | Singers | Poets | Graphic Designers | Animators Executive Producers | Production Coordinators | Production Accountants | Associate Producers | Camera Crews | Music Composers | Web Designers ...  Why Should You Attend: - Expand your business network & socialize with Philly art professionals.   - Meet co-collaborators & build strategic business partnerships.  - Have Fun!Feel free to forward this invite to fellow artists & entertainment colleagues. Post this on Facebook & LinkedIn to expand your network.$5 WITH Business Card[$10 without Business Card]** Sorry but we are POSTPONING due to harsh & dangerous weather conditions.**
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  • 6:30 PMAfraid of Dark film screening and discussion
  • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM Sankofa Community Empowerment brings to you a FREE screening of the documentary "Afraid of Dark," by filmmaker Mya B., of Shoot Films Not People Productions. "Afraid of Dark" is an insightful and entertaining documentary that aims to destroy the misconceptions and damaging stereotypes about Black men, that have often cost these men their lives. This moving film offers a genuine look at these men, revealing their diversity, strength, leadership and challenges. In this Post Ferguson world...who is AFRAID OF DARK?Featuring:-Actors Malik Yoba and Vondie Curtis Hall -Activist/Scholars Dr. Cornel West and Kevin Powell -Hiphop artists Peter Gunz, General Steele of Smif-N-Wessun and Chen Lo-"Brainwashed" author Tom Burrell -The late filmmaker/author Sam Greenlee of "The Spook Who Sat By the Door" fame -And more! Discussion will follow the screening with light refreshments.Admission is FREE
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  • 7:00 PM***POSTPONED UNTIL FEB 28 DUE TO FROZEN PIPES AT THE VENUE!*** This property is worth more than money: Ahimsa House Benefit Show
  • 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM ****POSTPONED UNTIL FEB 28 DUE TO FROZEN PIPES AT THE VENUE! *****An evening of music and community with Cultureal, George Urgo Band, Paulette Branson & Mixed People, and more! The Ahimsa House at 50th and Cedar needs our help! This property is worth more than money. This property is a piece of community development, the type of development that MLK, Gandhi and other nonviolent revolutionaries encouraged. Each day there are 2-3 free yoga, dance, music and meditation classes. The garden plot is a big part of our mission and benefits many people by providing human-nature connection and fresh organic food. Help us save the garden! **Raffle items include a night in the Ahimsa yurt, a private hot tub party for up to 6, massage, private yoga, a bag of organic produce from the garden, and more!** Read more about what's happening here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/ahimsa-house-philly-community-garden Can't make the show, but want to help? Donate online at the above link.
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  • 8:00 PMTrefoil performs 14th century Italian Love Songs
  • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM BowerbirdpresentsTREFOIL performs "Dio Mio!" 14th-century Italian Love SongsTrefoil offers selections from the spectacular trecento style of 14th-century Italy. Music as described in Boccaccio's Decameron: Madrigals, ballate, canons, and estampie by Landini, Cicconia, and Jacopo di Bologna. TREFOIL is a trio of modern minstrels long active in early music, with experience in such ensembles as Les Arts Florissants, Concert Royal, Early Music New York, Pomerium, Piffaro, Clarion Music Society, and My Lord Chamberlain's Consort. The trio debuted in New York and Philadelphia in 2000 with a program of 14th-century French ars subtilior song. The Philadelphia Inquirer tagged the group "a hearty trio of Medieval music specialists" and their performance as "an intricate, enigmatic vocal art."Admission is FREE
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  • 2:00 PMDouglas Detricks AnyWhen Ensemble with Matt Davis and Daniel Peterson Duo
  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM A unique afternoon original jazz concert at The Rotunda in Philadelphia. Matt Davis and Daniel Peterson will perform a duo set comprised of originals at 2pm, followed shortly thereafter by the chamber-jazz sounds of Douglas Detrick's Anywhen Ensemble! This is going to be an exceptional show and we really hope you can join us!More about the AnyWhere Ensemble:Douglas Detrick’s AnyWhen Ensemble is a chamber-jazz quintet whose signature instrumentation sets it apart, but makes its real impact through bold new compositions that integrate chamber music conception with jazz spontaneity. We believe that great music can happen anywhere, anyhow, anywhy, and anywhen — ours is fitting music for this bright and rushing world.The AnyWhen Ensemble was awarded the New Jazz Works and Presenting Jazz grant from Chamber Music America in 2011. This extremely competitive grant, attracting over 250 applicants every year, commissioned a new work by Detrick called The Bright and Rushing World, an ambitious addition to this singular composer’s list of accomplishments.The group has performed at the Jazz Gallery and the Stone in New York, and on festivals including the Festival of New Trumpet Music curated by Dave Douglas, and the Is That Jazz? Festival in Seattle, WA curated by Tom Baker. The group has also performed and given master classes at colleges across the country including Adelphi University, Cornish College of the Arts, University of Wisconsin Stevens Point, University of Oregon, and Willamette University.Matt Davis and Daniel Peterson Duo: Dan Peterson -Daniel Peterson leads a dynamic life in music, becoming deeply involved with a variety of progressive projects, while switching between the 8 woodwinds he performs on. He shows authority, range and consistency in choosing to work on things of high artistic merit, integrity and originality. After moving to Philadelphia in 1995, and striking up a long standing collaboration and mentorship with Philadelphia Saxophone legend Odean Pope, Daniel began a deeply spiritual study of music, woodwind playing, composing and championing new music through curating various events. These choices have led him to extraordinary accomplishments demonstrated by, his performing on alto saxophone with, PEW Fellow, Bobby Zankel's Warriors of the Wonderful Sound since its inception in 2001. Organizing the national recognized annual concert series "Collective Voices Festival"(1999-2002), composing and integrating Ellington and other period pieces into a score for Ego Po Theater's presentation of the Tennesee Williams play "Vieux Carre". Co-organizing the event, with Odean Pope, which presented Max Roach's last concert appearance in Philadelphia. Recording & self releasing 3 CDs and performing with his group featured at the Art After 5 series at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Creating an improvised score with Toshi Makihara for choreographer Leah Stein's, site specific dance performance "The Gate" at the historic landmark, Eastern State Penitentiary.He leads two ensembles; Truth & Consequence which works from trio-nonet format and The Bottomfeeders, a gritty, all-low horn ensemble featuring his Contra Alto Clarinet. He received a Subito grant from The American Composers Forum, in 2006, to develop the music for his second CD "5 Simple Worlds… and Ways of Getting There", a multi-media song cycle unifying music, dance and visual art. He was awarded Subito grants again in 2010 for a monthly concert series and in 2012 both a Subito and a Community Partners Grant for his "Lore & Lineage Suite" and "Jazz Matinee & Masterclass Series". On his own projects the diversity of material is equally and richly varied from the delicate, highly orchestrated material featuring vocals and poems on "5 Simple Worlds" to a slummy, trashy vibe that speaks as much to metal, punk and reggae as Jazz in the Bottomfeeders "It's an Uphill Climb To the Bottom".As a sideman he has held long standing collaborations with Odean's Saxophone Choir & Collective Voices Ensembles; Bobby Zankel's Warriors of The Wonderful Sound; Avant Rock band Agent Moosehead, Modern Jazz Octet Puzzlebox and the free jazz quartet, Augmented Fourthtet. He has performed with the best in modern instrumental music including Steve Coleman, Herb Robertson, Johnathon Finlayson, Tim Albright, Rudresh Mahanthapah, Marty Erhlich, Matt Mitchell, Ravi Coltrane, Billy Harper, Dave Burrell, Davonne Gardner, Muhal Richard Abrams,Dave Liebman and the Bucks County Community Choir. His studies have earned him a BA from Temple University in Jazz studies, private studies with Odean Pope, Ben Schachter and guitarist Steve Giordano. He has taught woodwinds and theory, at the nations largest music school, Settlement Music School since 2003. Currently he is a Masters Candidate at Rutgers, Newark in Dr. Lewis Porter's Jazz History & Research Program. From 1997 on, Daniel has lead many events as a presenter/promoter of new music, monthly events like Intercultural Saxophone workshops, Risk Taking Type Music, Cross-Pollination and currently Avant Ascension and annually with the Collective Voices Festival (1999-2002).Matt Davis:Matt Davis is a guitarist, arranger and composer based in the Philadelphia and New York areas. In addition to performing, Matt is an active composer, teacher and arranger. Hailed as “incredible” by the Philadelphia Daily News, and “eloquent" by Jazztimes Magazine, Matt’s original 12 piece ‘modern chamber jazz ensemble’, called “Aerial Photograph” has released three CD’s and performs regularly in and around the tri-state area.Matt has shared the stage with notable musicians such as Odean Pope, The Silk Road Ensemble, Dave Liebman, Paulina Oliveros, John Swana, Terrell Stafford, Mickey Roker, Jon Hollenbeck, and many others. He is a recipient of numerous awards and honors including grants from ASCAP, the American Composers Forum, The National Parks Service, The Banff Center, etc.Matt currently serves as Senior Lecturer in Jazz guitar performance at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and is a teaching artist for the New York Pops in New York City. He earned his Masters degree at the Manhattan School of Music in New York City. He has taught lessons and workshops in the New York and Philadelphia regions as well as the greater Mexico City region. He is currently working on material for a forthcoming book on how to practice various dynamics techniques for jazz musicians. He is currently endorsed by Godin Guitars and plays a Godin Multiac Grand Concert guitar. In addition, Matt collects antique radios, old sheet music, vintage harmonicas and other random, somewhat useless, artifacts from flea markets.Donations appreciated at the door.
  • 6:00 PMPhilly Youth Poetry Slam and Open Mic
  • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

    YOUTH NIGHT OPEN MIC & POETRY SLAM

     (nearly) Every 3rd Saturday of the month, except August, PYPM hosts a youth-led open mic and poetry slam for teens to come and share their work in a safe, uncensored environment at The Rotunda. Young people from all over Philadelphia come to express themselves in front of a supportive audience where they can grab the microphone and be heard! 

    ***Interested in slamming or signing up for the open mic? See Slam Rules/Schedule, and Registration for full details. Date: Every 3rd Saturday from September through June Time: 6PM sharp (doors open at 5:45PM) PYPM YOUTH SLAM TEAM & BRAVE NEW VOICES Teens who participate in the slams earn points to qualify for the semi-final and final slams to make the PYPM Slam Team. Each year PYPM sends a Youth Slam Team to represent Philadelphia at The Brave New Voices International Youth Poetry Festival to compete against over 50 other poetry teams from around the world. The festival is held in various cities across the U.S giving teens an opportunity to travel, from Los Angeles to Chicago. Youth poets earn their spot on the team by competing in Youth Night Slams. PYPM won first place at Brave New Voices in 2011 and 2007. Admission: $7 youth and Students with ID / $10 Adults / ($5 for students who attend workshop that day)

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  • 7:00 PMOliver Lake Meets Sonic Liberation 8 and the Classical Revolution Trio
  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Oliver Lake Meets Sonic Liberation 8 and the Classical Revolution TrioOliver Lake, alto saxophoneKevin Diehl, drums, bata, percussionElliot Levin, soprano + tenor saxophones, fluteVeronica MJ, violaConnor Przybyszewski, tromboneMatt Engle, acoustic bassNichola Rivera, bata + percussionRon Howerton, bata + percussionTom Lowery, drums + percussionRussell Kotcher, violinEric Coyne, celloMelanie Hsu, celloArs Nova Workshop is proud to present Oliver Lake with the Sonic Liberation 8 and the Classical Revolution Trio. This very special performance will feature two pieces composed by Lake specifically for SL8 and the Classical Revolution Trio, and a third piece arranged specifically for the multi-faceted ensemble.Composer, saxophonist, poet and Guggenheim Fellow, Oliver Lake is one of jazz's most prolific and eclectic artists of the last 40 years. Oliver Lake is known for everything from his solo saxophone performances and recordings; to his solo music-theater work; to his reggae-jazz group Jump Up; to his work as a founding member of the World Saxophone Quartet; to his Oliver Lake Big Band; to the Oliver Lake Steel. Lake was a founding member of the Black Artists Group (BAG) in St Louis in the 1970's where he grew up with trumpeter Lester Bowie and pianist John Hicks. He has received multiple commissions from the National Endowment for the Arts, Meet the Composer, and the Mary Flagler Cary Charitable Trust and his works have been performed by the Arditti String Quartet, the World Saxophone Quartet, the Amherst Sax Quartet, violinist Regina Carter, the Brooklyn Philharmonic, the San Francisco Contemporary Players, New York New Music Ensemble, and Pulse Percussion Ensemble of New York. He has worked with a wide range of artists including the pop singer Björk, rocker Lou Reed, jazz vocalist Abbey Lincoln, and rap group A Tribe Called Quest. Other projects include a collaboration with writer and law professor Patricia Williams, and the Quagmire Trio with komungo player Jin Hi Kim and bassist William Parker. Also an exhibiting visual artist, Lake continues to perform worldwide with his own ensembles as well as in Trio 3, the long-standing cooperative trio with percussionist Andrew Cyrille and bassist Reggie Workman (sometimes augmented by pianist Geri Allen). Lake spent time in Cuba this past year through the American Composers Forum.Under the leadership of Kevin Diehl, Sonic Liberation 8 realizes commonalities among the progenitors of ancient Lukumi composition, the Loft Jazz scene in 1970s New York, and new music composers and performers. As Sonic Liberation Front, they have consistently won international critical acclaim and have been named #1 or Top 10 by The Village Voice, All About Jazz, Jazziz, and more. The band has recorded six internationally-distributed albums, including their 2011 release Sonic Liberation Front Meets Sunny Murray (High Two) and their latest release, Jetway Confidential (High Two, December 2012). Members of the octet come well-credentialed for this unique musical amalgam, having performed or recorded with Cecil Taylor, Ornette Coleman, William Parker's Tone Motion Theatre, Jamaladeen Tacuma, Shot by Shot, Tim Berne, The Spoken Hand Percussion Orchestra, Tyrone Hill’s Deep Space Posse, Ochan la Ocha (Lukumi drum ensemble), Odean Pope Saxophone Choir, and The Prometheus Chamber Orchestra.Ars Nova Workshop welcomes the return of bandleader Kevin Diehl, who we commissioned in 2009 to compose a piece commemorating Sun Ra which was performed as part of the Institute for Contemporary Art's installation “Pathways to Unknown Worlds: Sun Ra, El Saturn & Chicago's Afro-Futurist Underground, 1954-1968.”Admission is $15
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  • 6:00 PMLife Outside the Streets - CHANGING LIVES: A NEW HIP HOP GENERATION Festival
  • 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM "CHANGING LIVES: A NEW HIP HOP GENERATION"  FestivalSchedule of Performances6pm"Life Outside the Streets"A staged production highlighting hip hop as a nation conscious rap context for change agency.7pm"Black Manchild"A theatrical production that chronicles the trials and tribulations of growing up black and male in Urban America.8:30pm"All Life Matters"A  performance featuring emergent rappers, spoken word artists and other storytellers who are trying to change the world and surrounding communities.Each performance is $10.00  but group rates are available for discounted ticket purchases.For more information contact267-230-0317215-888-5285nationalblackartspokenwordtour@yahoo.comwww.nationalblackauthorstour.com
  • 7:00 PMBlack Manchild - CHANGING LIVES: A NEW HIP HOP GENERATION Festival
  • 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM "CHANGING LIVES: A NEW HIP HOP GENERATION"  FestivalSchedule of Performances6pm"Life Outside the Streets"A staged production highlighting hip hop as a nation conscious rap context for change agency.7pm"Black Manchild"A theatrical production that chronicles the trials and tribulations of growing up black and male in Urban America.8:30pm"All Life Matters"A  performance featuring emergent rappers, spoken word artists and other storytellers who are trying to change the world and surrounding communities.Each performance is $10.00  but group rates are available for discounted ticket purchases.For more information contact267-230-0317215-888-5285nationalblackartspokenwordtour@yahoo.comwww.nationalblackauthorstour.com
  • 8:00 PMAll Life Matters - CHANGING LIVES: A NEW HIP HOP GENERATION Festival
  • 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM "CHANGING LIVES: A NEW HIP HOP GENERATION"  FestivalSchedule of Performances6pm"Life Outside the Streets"A staged production highlighting hip hop as a nation conscious rap context for change agency.7pm"Black Manchild"A theatrical production that chronicles the trials and tribulations of growing up black and male in Urban America.8:30pm"All Life Matters"A  performance featuring emergent rappers, spoken word artists and other storytellers who are trying to change the world and surrounding communities.Each performance is $10.00  but group rates are available for discounted ticket purchases.For more information contact267-230-0317215-888-5285nationalblackartspokenwordtour@yahoo.comwww.nationalblackauthorstour.com
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  • 9:00 PMThe Gathering
  • 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM

    (nearly every last Thursday) 

     9pm-1am

     Established in 1996, The Gathering is the longest/strongest-running truly Hip Hop event in Philly. 

    The Gathering IS b-boys/b-girls, pop-lockers, emcees, graffiti writers, DJs, men, women, and children of all ages enjoying an organic, community-based celebration of The struggle, the Love, and the culture of Hip Hop. DJs spin Hiphop, breaks, and funk all night, and there are open cyphas, a tag wall, and a featured performance and graffiti panel each month. 

    Admission is $5

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  • 7:00 PMThe Freedom Gathering
  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Frontline Dads will present its 2015 Black History Celebration and Fundraiser: “The Freedom Gathering” a presentation of art, music, song, and poetry. The Freedom Gathering is a communal celebration that will inspire, uplift, inform and mobilize the public while honoring the “Unsung Heroes” of the community for their contributions, sacrifices and inspiration. The Freedom Gathering is a fundraiser for the Frontline Dads Mentoring Program, and the suggested donation is $10. For more information, or to reserve tickets, email frontlinedads@aol.com
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  • 7:00 PM****RESCHEDULED FROM FEB 19***** This property is worth more than money: Ahimsa House Benefit Show!
  • 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM ****RESCHEDULED FROM FEB 19*****An evening of music and community with Cultureal, George Urgo Band, Paulette Branson & Mixed People, and more! The Ahimsa House at 50th and Cedar needs our help! This property is worth more than money. This property is a piece of community development, the type of development that MLK, Gandhi and other nonviolent revolutionaries encouraged. Each day there are 2-3 free yoga, dance, music and meditation classes. The garden plot is a big part of our mission and benefits many people by providing human-nature connection and fresh organic food. Help us save the garden! **Raffle items include a night in the Ahimsa yurt, a private hot tub party for up to 6, massage, private yoga, a bag of organic produce from the garden, and more!** Read more about what's happening here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/ahimsa-house-philly-community-garden Can't make the show, but want to help? Donate online at the above link.
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