An unforgettable afternoon of music at Kleinhans Music Hall’s Mary Seaton Room
On Sunday, February 16, at 3 pm, the Buffalo arts and culture community will gather to honor the legacy of Harold Arlen, one of the greatest composers of the Great American Songbook, in a special 120th Birthday Celebration. This event brings together an extraordinary trio of artists whose combined talents promise a memorable tribute to Arlen’s unparalleled contributions to jazz and American popular music.
Pete Malinverni: The Perfect Maestro for the Occasion
Leading this celebration is none other than Pete Malinverni, a pianist of remarkable skill and depth. Western New York native Pete Malinverni is a highly respected pianist, composer, and educator who brings a wealth of experience and artistry to the Harold Arlen 120th Birthday Celebration. Currently serving as the Chair of Jazz Studies at Purchase College, SUNY, Malinverni has spent decades honing his craft and sharing his passion for jazz with students and audiences worldwide.
Malinverni’s talent for interpreting American music is showcased in his critically acclaimed album, On the Town: Pete Malinverni Plays Leonard Bernstein. This tribute to one of America’s greatest composers earned widespread praise for its innovative arrangements and heartfelt performances, demonstrating his profound ability to bridge the worlds of jazz and classical music seamlessly.
With his deep understanding of the Great American Songbook, Malinverni is uniquely suited to lead this celebration of Harold Arlen’s enduring legacy. His expertise and personal connection to Western New York make his participation in this event all the more special.
Julie Kurtzman: Elegance and Emotion on the Violin
Julie Kurtzman, an internationally accomplished violinist, brings an exquisite blend of classical finesse and improvisational prowess to the Harold Arlen 120th Birthday Celebration. Her career spans performances on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, where she has captivated audiences with her technical brilliance and emotive interpretations.
Kurtzman’s artistic synergy with Pete Malinverni shines brightly in their critically acclaimed album Candlelight: Love in the Time of Cholera. This remarkable collaboration blends Kurtzman’s soaring violin melodies with Malinverni’s deeply expressive piano work, creating a poignant and timeless collection of music that has resonated with audiences across genres.
Her ability to navigate the intricate nuances of both classical and jazz styles makes Kurtzman an invaluable addition to this celebration, ensuring a performance filled with elegance and heartfelt emotion.
Anaïs Reno: A Rising Star in Jazz and Songbook Excellence
At just 21 years old, jazz vocalist Anaïs Reno is taking the world by storm. Already hailed as a rising star in jazz, Reno has earned accolades for her exceptional interpretations of the Great American Songbook. Her debut album, Lovesome Thing: Anaïs Reno Sings Ellington & Strayhorn, which also featured Emmet Cohen, received critical acclaim, showcasing her ability to bring a fresh yet timeless approach to classic standards.
Reno’s collaboration with Pete Malinverni resulted in the critically acclaimed album Live at Pizza Express, recorded at the famed London jazz club. The album features inspired renditions of essential Great American Songbook classics, highlighting Reno’s sophisticated artistry and her dynamic partnership with Malinverni. With her distinctive voice, deep understanding of jazz traditions, and extraordinary poise, Reno is a standout artist destined to captivate audiences in Buffalo.
An Iconic Venue for an Iconic Celebration
The celebration takes place in the stunning Mary Seaton Room at Kleinhans Music Hall, one of Buffalo’s most treasured cultural landmarks. This intimate and acoustically superb space provides the perfect setting for an afternoon of musical brilliance.
Celebrating Harold Arlen’s Legacy in a Multimedia Experience
The Harold Arlen 120th Birthday Celebration promises to be more than just a concert—it’s a full-scale tribute to one of America’s most iconic composers. Adding depth to this musical experience, the Jewish History Center of Buffalo will graciously provide their acclaimed Harold Arlen exhibit in the Kleinhans Music Hall lobby. This thoughtfully curated exhibit will showcase the life, work, and enduring legacy of the Buffalo-born composer, providing guests with a deeper understanding of his influence on the Great American Songbook.
Inside the stunning Mary Seaton Room, the concert itself will feature a dynamic multimedia presentation. Through a blend of live performances, engaging visuals, and stories about Harold Arlen’s life and artistry, audiences will be transported into the heart of his world. This immersive experience will highlight his profound contributions to music and celebrate the timelessness of his compositions.
Whether through the exhibit or the multimedia concert, this event offers a rare opportunity to connect with Arlen’s legacy in a way that is both educational and profoundly moving.
Reserve Your Seats Today
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate Harold Arlen’s 120th birthday with a lineup of exceptional talent. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to Arlen’s genius, this event promises to delight and inspire.
Tickets are available now. Reserve your seats today and join us for an unforgettable jazz experience celebrating one of the greatest American composers in history.
Learn more and purchase tickets here: Harold Arlen 120th Birthday Celebration
