My Secret Society co-conspirators and I will be joining forces with the brilliant pianist Aaron Diehl to close out 92NY’s Jazz in July series on July 26. This concert will feature the full world premiere of A Banquet for the Birds, a multi-movement work for piano and jazz orchestra written to feature Aaron’s incomparable artistry. It’s inspired by Emily Wilson’s wonderful new translation of The Illiad — specifically, by the memorable, vivid scenes where avian activities are interpreted by the Greek and Trojan armies as messages from the gods.
We’ll also be presenting the US premiere of the arrangements of Aaron’s music that I’m writing for my second project as composer-in-residence of Frankfurt Radio Big Band. It’s very exciting to be able to present this music for audiences both abroad and at home!