Frost School Faculty Shine: Summer of Performances and Publications
The faculty of the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music are experiencing a vibrant summer, marked by a flurry of creative activity. From performances in prestigious venues to the release of new books, the summer months have become a showcase for the diverse talents and accomplishments of Frost School educators. This season is testament to the school’s commitment to fostering both artistic excellence and intellectual rigor.
A Carnegie Hall Premiere for Dafnis Prieto
Leading the charge this summer is MacArthur “genius” award-winning percussionist and associate professor Dafnis Prieto. Prieto is slated to premiere a new work this Saturday at the legendary Carnegie Hall. The performance, featuring the NYO Jazz orchestra, marks a significant moment in Prieto’s career and promises to be a highlight of the summer music scene.
The piece, titled “Hopes and Wishes,” is a big band composition that will showcase Prieto’s distinctive compositional style and virtuosity. The performance is particularly noteworthy as it strengthens the connection between the Frost School and the broader professional music world. The NYO Jazz orchestra’s involvement highlights the caliber of talent that Prieto is associated with, and the prestigious venue of Carnegie Hall underscores the importance of this premiere.
Literary Contributions and Educational Initiatives
Beyond the stage, Prieto has also been making waves in the literary world. In June, he presented his third book, “What Are the Odds: A Journey on Latin Rhythms and Meters,” at Books & Books in Miami. The book provides an in-depth exploration of Latin rhythms and meters, offering valuable insights for musicians and music enthusiasts alike. This presentation offered a chance for Prieto to connect with the South Florida community and share his scholarly work.
Prieto’s book presentation at Books & Books was further enhanced by the presence of his Frost School colleague, Mark Lomanno. Lomanno celebrated the release of his co-edited book, “The Improvisor’s Classroom,” at the same event. The co-editing project underscores Lomanno’s dedication to music education and his commitment to providing aspiring musicians with essential resources. The co-editing project with other music educators further highlights a collaborative spirit at the Frost School.
Carnival Spirit and Musical Innovation
Etienne Charles also left his mark on the summer music scene, bringing the vibrant spirit of Carnival to New York’s Lincoln Center. This performance, a fusion of Caribbean rhythms and jazz improvisation, captivated audiences and showcased the global influences that inform Charles’s work. His performance at Lincoln Center provided another platform to display the school’s contribution to innovative and world class performances.
New Releases and Ongoing Projects
In addition to these high-profile performances and publications, other Frost School faculty members have been equally productive. Raina Murnak and Stephen J. Gleason recently released “Lipstick and Shades,” a new project that expands the school’s creative output into recorded music. This release signifies the continued growth of the school’s catalogue.
Meanwhile, Tom Collins continues his ongoing work on the impact of artificial intelligence on music. This project highlights the school’s engagement with cutting-edge technology and its commitment to understanding the future of music. Collins’s research adds to the understanding of how music is changing in the 21st century.
A Flourishing Community of Artists and Scholars
The Frost School of Music’s faculty’s summer activities reflect the school’s commitment to supporting artistic creativity and scholarly endeavors. The faculty are not only active in their respective fields but are also making significant contributions to music education and research. The diverse range of projects demonstrates the school’s broad impact on the music community. The Frost School faculty has been at the forefront of musical and scholarly excellence and their achievements add to the prestige of the school.
In all, the Frost School’s faculty’s summer activities highlight the diverse talents within the school and its continued dedication to excellence in music education, performance, and scholarship. These successes, from Carnegie Hall premieres to book releases, underscore the vibrant and dynamic environment at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music.
