GERALD CLAYTON SOLOS AT LACC ONE NIGHT ONLY
There are few times in life that one witnesses an artist and knows immediately that something is different. I can even catch it on a recording. That specialness that can’t be replicated by imitation or study. Well, to quote Thelonius Monk: “Know it when you hear it.” And such an artist is jazz pianist Gerald Clayton, whom I first saw live in a tribute produced by Jocelyn Arem, Steve Rosenthal, and the late great pianist Geri Allen: the Erroll Garner Project: Concert by the Sea, which played the Monterey Jazz Festival. Clayton’s take on “Autumn Leaves” was a mash-up of everything from George Winston to Mr. Monk. Not only does Clayton have jazz in his blood, but he comes from jazz royalty: His dad is bass player and composer John Clayton. After catching Mr. Clayton’s trio at the Hollywood Bowl and then the Monterey Jazz Festival this year, I was champing at the bit to see him in a solo performance — his harmonics are a wholly new blend of notes that are rooted in jazz of the past (and his own dad’s music) while refreshingly modern at the same time.
Well, the time has come: Clayton will be appearing solo at Los Angeles City College on Wednesday November 20, 2019 at the Herb & Lani Alpert Recital Hall — and a steal at only 25 buckaroos (and free for students)! The concert takes place at 7:30 PM, with a preceding hosted cocktail hour at 6:30 PM. The recital is part of the inaugural Yamaha Artist Concert Series, in partnership with Yamaha, LA City College Foundation, and Keyboard Concepts, which will present some of the best in classical, jazz, and contemporary piano music. Do not miss this!
photo by Tony Frankel
Gerald Clayton, piano
Yamaha Artist Concert Series
Herb & Lani Alpert Recital Hall, Los Angeles City College
855 N Vermont Ave (@ Normal Ave.)
for tickets to this and future performances, visit Yamaha
