Carnival dance party with JP Silva from Rio de Janeiro
Saturday, February 6, 2021
This year we may not be able to dance together, but we are bringing the party to you. Join us for this special virtual performance by JP Silva, coming to us directly from Rio de Janeiro. We will kick off the evening with a short dance lesson, and then JP will lead us in some classic sambas and carnival songs. We invite you to sing and dance along with us from your homes! Viva Brasil, viva Carnaval! Learn more.
Conversation with Cissa Paz
Friday, February 19, 2021
Join us for a conversation with Brazilian singer-songwriter Cissa Paz about her latest work and her upcoming album. Cissa has made a name for herself in Washington, DC as an eclectic performer influenced by the local jazz sounds and her Brazilian African-Indigenous background. Nominated for 3 Wammies, her debut album gained great organic momentum. Cissa’s captivating stage presence and soulful voice bring music that is upbeat and engaging. She is known and loved among the lovers and dancers of Brazilian music not only as a performer, but as an ambassador of her genre. Her upcoming album promises a combination of Afro-Brazilian base with funky and soulful influences. The album is a musical melting pot of fresh collaborations with highly acclaimed artists from her home country. Learn more.
Conversation with Amy K Bormet
Friday, March 5, 2021
Join us for a conversation with pianist, vocalist, and composer Amy K Bormet about her work and her upcoming Washington Women in Jazz Festival, which she created in 2011 and is organizing as a virtual festival this year. Learn more.
Conversation with Nic Gareiss, Becky Hill, and Kate Spanos
Friday, March 19, 2021
Join us for an open conversation with percussive dancers Nic Gareiss, Becky Hill, and Kate Spanos about tradition, innovation, and musicality. They will discuss concepts such as “dancing the tune” (Gareiss), rhythmic translation, and the similarities and differences between various percussive dance forms. Learn more.
Conversation with Alison Crockett
Friday, April 23, 2021
Join us for a conversation with pianist, vocalist, and composer Amy K Bormet about her work and her upcoming Washington Women in Jazz Festival, which she created in 2011 and is organizing as a virtual festival this year. Learn more.
Conversation with Ceylon Mitchell
Friday, July 9, 2021
Join us for a conversation with flutist Ceylon Mitchell II to hear about his latest work and upcoming projects. Ceylon is a flutist, arts entrepreneur, educator, and arts advocate in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. His mission is keeping classical music alive, authentic, and accessible. Learn more.
See our 2020 Virtual Performance & Conversation Series
The 2021 Virtual Performance Series is supported by the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC).