Thursday, January 27, 2011

Tango Quartet Extasis Performs at Strings Pavilion

Last night the Strings Music Festival audience was entertained with dramatic Argentine tango music performed by ExtasisExtasis is a tango quartet based out of Denver.  They walked the audience through the history, instrumentation, culture and rhythmic structure of tango music. 

The bandoneon defined the tango quartet and is a type of concertina instrument particularly popular in Argentina.  Some would say it looks like and accordion but the key difference being that the direction of button movement is parallel with the direction of the bellows movement with the bandoneon.

The tango ranged from traditional to contemporary, as well as tango songs that a listener might recognize from Hollywood.  The crowd was excited when Extasis started playing “Jealousy”, which has been the theme song in many movies. 

The Strings Music Festival Winter Series continues February 22nd with Dailey and Vincent known for their great country and bluegrass music. They were recently nominated for a Grammy for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Don't miss this concert!


WATCH EXTASIS PERFORM "JEALOUSY".

Friday, January 21, 2011

Simon Boyar Returns for Strings School Days


Professional percussionist and marimba player, Simon Boyar, returned to Steamboat Springs last week for Strings School Days.  Simon composed several pieces of music for students around the area, including Lowell Whiteman Primary School, Hayden High School, Christian Heritage and the Steamboat Springs High School and Middle School. Over 500 students and 30 adults were a part of the program.

Simon not only entertained the students with his talent on the marimba but also instructed along the way.  The students were excited to play different tempo music and will continue to practice Simon's pieces throughout the next several months.  He returns in May when the students will perform his compositions at the Strings Music Pavilion.

Students had a chance to ask questions of Simon, which ranged from "Can you play Lady Gaga?" to "What is your favorite baseball team?"  He answered by playing Lady Gaga's Poker Face and let them all know the Yankee's are his favorite team.  Simon Boyar currently lives in Brooklyn, NY and is perhaps the most electrifying and innovative young percussionist on the music scene today.


WATCH SIMON BOYAR WITH THE STEAMBOAT 7TH GRADE PERCUSSION GROUP.