BRAVO! Performing Arts Series Brought in Praiseworthy Performances and Captivating Classes Throughout 2022
BYU’s BRAVO! Performing Arts Series is a beloved tradition that highlights excellence in the global performing arts community as well as rising talent at BYU. This series features professional performers that come to BYU to perform and often conduct master classes for BYU students. Below are highlights from the 2022 BRAVO! Performances and opportunities that BYU students participated in.
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis | February 15, 2022
Nine-time Grammy Award winner Wynton Marsalis
When Marsalis met with jazz students in the School of Music, students felt inspired to make the most out of their practice time outside of performances. Members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra described how jazz can evoke a visual image for the audience, but it takes a practiced performer. Students commented on how this masterclass left them feeling like they were truly part of the music community.
An Evening with Morris Robinson | March 2, 2022
Morris Robinson
In the masterclass with BYU Opera students, Robinson reminded students to breathe. He emphasized intentionality and encouraged students to learn the meaning behind the lyrics they sing. Students received help with operatic expressions, and many went away with new knowledge on how to improve their movements and facial expressions on stage.
An Evening with Eric Whitacre featuring the BYU Choirs | March 15, 2022
Not many choral music composers are popular enough to have their name recognized outside of choral circles, but Eric Whitacre
In addition to conducting BYU Choirs, Whitacre also hosted a Q&A with BYU students, telling them how he started with music and his experiences working with other composers. He advised students to see their weaknesses not as faults, but as things that could eventually be what makes them unique as composers.
An Evening with Jeremy Jordan | September 2, 2022
Jeremy Jordan brought charm alongside impressive credentials to BYU’s stage in September. Jordan is known for several award-winning performances such as his role in Broadway productions of “Bonnie and Clyde.” Many may recognize him from his performance in Disney’s “Newsies,” which earned him a Tony nomination. Jordan has appeared in several popular television shows, such as NBC’s “Smash” and CW’s “Supergirl.”
Jordan met with students in the music dance theatre (MDT) major. In the masterclass, Jordan encouraged students to take risks and trust their instincts. Jordan asked students to personally connect to the pieces they were performing during the masterclass and continue this practice. Many MDT students hope to perform professionally and hearing from Jordan was an impactful experience.
Voces8 Masterclass with the BYU Concert Choir| October 28, 2022
Voces8
In their meeting with the Concert Choir, Voces8 reminded students that music is both technique and heart. When performing to any audience Voces8 hopes to connect emotionally and tell a story. Many in the class remarked on how gracious and humble members of Voces8 were as they instructed the Choir. Students walked away from this class with more confidence in their individuality they can bring to their choir.