U of A’s Jazz Program Announces NEA Jazz Master Dave Liebman as Artist-in-Residence

Dave Liebman

The University of Arkansas Jazz Program in the Department of Music is thrilled to announce the upcoming residency of saxophonist, composer, NEA Jazz Master, and two-time Grammy nominee Dave Liebman.

The residency will take place April 6-9, 2020. During his time in Northwest Arkansas, Liebman will conduct workshops and masterclasses that showcase the breadth and depth of his musical experiences, his work with some of the most prominent figures in jazz, and his work as a classical composer. Two performances will feature Liebman in collaboration with U of A musicians.

Liebman’s classical compositions will be featured in a concert from U of A saxophone professor Eric Troiano’s studio. His students will prepare numerous pieces written by Liebman for a concert celebrating his serious contributions to the saxophone repertory.

“I’m excited to have Dave Liebman on campus this spring,” Troiano said. “Bringing in a world-class artist, composer, performer and teacher as a guest artist is such a valuable experience for our students and our department.”

The saxophone studio performance will take place at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2020, in the Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall on the University of Arkansas campus. The concert is free and open to the pubic.

Partnering with the Momentary, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art’s new modern art satellite, the Jazz Program will feature Liebman in a concert with U of A jazz faculty and the University of Arkansas Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Rick Salonen. This concert will be held at 8 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2020, at the Momentary in Bentonville. Tickets will be available on Dec. 19, 2019.

“It is thrilling to host such a distinguished guest during our inaugural year of the U of A Jazz Program,” said jazz area coordinator Jake Hertzog. “Dave is an extraordinary model for our students, a true artist and master educator. We are so happy to bring Dave and his music to Northwest Arkansas and collaborate with new institutions in our region.”

More information about Liebman’s residency can be found at jazz.uark.edu. A full schedule of masterclasses and performances will be announced in early spring 2020.

A version of this story also appeared in the U of A’s Newswire publication.