Chamber Music Society of Detroit to Present CLASSICAL JAM, 10/20

On Sunday, Oct. 20, the new Chamber Music Society of Detroit (CMSD) at Oakland University series will present Classical Jam, five brilliant musicians who blend classical tradition and improvisation to create dynamic performances unlike anything else on the concert stage today.

Their program, "From the Streets to the Concert Hall," will explore the way composers throughout history have incorporated their heritages and the popular music of their day into concert music. It will include music by Bach, Piazzolla, Mozart and more.

The event marks the launch of an exciting new partnership between Oakland University and the Chamber Music Society of Detroit, one of the world's premier chamber music presenting organizations. The partnership came about when CMSD President Steve Wogaman approached OU Music, Theatre and Dance Chair Professor Jackie Wiggins.

"Oakland University has one of the fastest growing performing arts programs in the country and we are thrilled to bring our concerts to its campus," Wogaman said. "We look forward to meeting new listeners and sharing our passion for chamber music with them."

Wiggins offered similar sentiments. "We are just so excited about our new partnership with the Chamber Music Society of Detroit. It is absolutely a win-win situation for all," she said.

"The Chamber Music Society has been looking to expand its audience and reach in the region. OU Music, Theatre and Dance has always wanted to expand our offerings to include world class performers. This partnership enables both to achieve these goals."

Classical Jam's visit will advance institutional goals in a number of ways. Well known for its commitment to audience engagement, the group is offering an improvisational jam session from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. in Room 134 of Varner Hall on the campus of Oakland University.

Open to anyone with any level of musical aptitude and an instrument to play, the session promises to be a don't-miss, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Those interested in doing a little preparation can download sheet music for "Asa Branca - Brazilian Baiao" at oakland.edu/upload/docs/MTD/Newsletter/Asa Branca - Brazilian Baiao.pdf.

Classic Jam's 7 p.m. recital on Sunday will take place in Varner Recital Hall, near which there is ample free parking. Interactive and printable campus maps are available at oakland.edu/map or by searching for "Varner Hall" on a smart phone. To learn more about Classical Jam and hear sample recordings, visit classicaljam.org.

Tickets for the recital are $20 for general admission and $10 for students. They can be purchased online, by phone or in person. Complete ticket information is available at oakland.edu/tickets.

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