Skirball Cultural Center Announces Line-Up for 16th Annual Sunset Concerts

The Skirball Cultural Center announces the line-up for its sixteenth annual free Sunset Concerts. The 2012 season features an eclectic mix of traditions and styles, from the Americas to Central Asia to Central and East Africa, and offers a chance to discover some of the greatest talents in world music today.

The schedule is as follows: Samba Mapangala & Orchestra Virunga (July 26); West Coast premiere of The Alaev Family (August 2); West Coast premiere of Orquesta Sarabia under the direction of Roberto Rodriguez (August 9); West Coast premiere of De Temps Antan (August 16); La Santa Cecilia (August 23); and world premiere of Eric Bibb’s String Band (August 30).

The six Thursday night community concerts are presented free of charge in the Skirball’s scenic central courtyard. For each live performance, the expansive outdoor space is transformed into an intimate, celebratory gathering. Concertgoers arrive early to dine under the stars, visit the museum galleries, and explore the Skirball’s spectacular architecture and hillside setting. Then, as the performers take the stage, festivities spill out into the aisles and music lovers of all ages sing along and take to the dance floor. “The energy is palpable and infectious,” says Jordan Peimer, Skirball Vice President of Programs.

Peimer continues, “Now celebrating its ‘Sweet Sixteen,’ the Skirball Cultural Center regards our yearly Sunset Concerts as a perfect summertime happening—a chance to connect with loved ones, to uplift the spirit, and to celebrate our diverse cultural traditions and personal journeys. We are proud to showcase the virtuosity of artists from distant shores, but also the best in North American roots music and homegrown L.A. talent.”