Performers

DEVONY SMITH, mezzo-soprano
DANNY ZELIBOR, piano 
MICHAEL NICHOLAS, cello

In This Short Life is diverse, soulful, and deeply personal celebration of American sound through art song. Drawing inspiration from folk, cinematic music, gospel, jazz, and musical theater, the program incorporates the poetry of Harlem Renaissance poet Anne Spencer, Maya Angelou, Emily Dickinson, and folk texts. Recognized for her "sensual voice, mezzo-soprano Devony Smith is a versatile performer with a wide-ranging repertoire in opera and concert music. Pianist Danny Zelibor, praised for his sensitive and colorful playing, is a sought-after collaborator and musical director. Cellist Michael Nicolas of the genre-defying Brooklyn Rider quartet, has a diverse career as chamber musician, soloist, and recording artist. In This Short Life, the debut album of Devony, Danny and Michael, is available on Lexicon Classics. 

PROGRAM

JAKE LANDAU/TRADITIONAL Sew My True Love (Jubilee) - A folk lyric collected by Jean Ritchie set to new, original music by Landau

JENNIFER HIGDON Little River Songs, I. Little River

DAVID LANG Simple song #3

MARK ADAMO The Racer’s Widow

WILL LIVERMAN For Jim, Easter Eve & Earth, I thank you (text by Anne Spencer)

EVE BEGLARIAN finish what I haven’t started & only your dolls (text by Anne Sexton)

JAKE LANDAU/TRADITIONAL The Sake of You - A folk lyric collected by Jean Ritchie set to new, original music by Landau

J. BENJAMIN PERRY WENZELBERG An Hour of Forever (text by Emily Dickinson)

Tickets: Age 35+: $38 | 22-34: $20 | 21 & Under: Pay What You Wish.