NOTE: The online box office is closed. TIckets will be available at the American Legion Hall starting at 6:15pm. We look forward to seeing you there.
Matt DeChamplain is “the man” when it comes to stride piano. He approaches his instrument in a fresh and interesting way, reworking familiar standards and interpreting his own compositions. Not just a repertory player, Matt is a creative interpreter of the genre, as shown on his CD “Stride – Bop.”
Matt's music is rooted in a profound love for the early jazz masters. What makes him unique is his application of early jazz piano devices created by Ragtime, Blues and Stride musicians. He pursues a musicianship that fuses traditional elements with modern jazz concepts. In this program, Matt illustrates how various stride players influenced generations of jazz giants.
So, after Pittsfield’s monthly “First Friday Artswalk,” stride over to 41 Wendell Ave. for this special event. An optional Italian buffet will be available from Brenda’s Catering, starting at 6:30pm. Regular seating will be available at 7pm. Cash bar will also be available.
Matt DeChamplain is an educator and performer, but rarely gets the chance to mix the two professions. A growing interest in jazz in the Berkshires, encouraged by his two previous appearances in a different (vocal) setting, gives him the opportunity to stretch out, while engaging with the audience.
You’ll come away not just entertained but better informed, with a greater appreciation for what makes jazz the special music that it is.
This new program was devised by Berkshires Jazz specifically for ArtWeek, a 10-day celebration of the arts in Massachusetts. Presented by Highland Street Foundation and produced by the Boch Center, ArtWeek is an annual award-winning innovative festival featuring hundreds of unique and creative experiences. After explosive growth throughout 70+ towns/neighborhoods in Eastern Massachusetts, it was announced in May 2017 that ArtWeek would become an annual spring festival and expand statewide.
An optional dinner, a delightful Italian buffet --featuring chicken Parm as only Brenda's can do it-- is available for $17, including tax and tip (and, dessert!). Dinner available at 6:30pm. For general seating, doors open at 7pm. Tickets for the concert only are $25 in advance, $30 on day of the event.