Sounds of L.A., the free weekend concert series at the Getty Center, kicks off its fifteenth season on February 11 with exhilarating music and dance performed by master and emerging artists from around Los Angeles and the globe. This season features ensembles lauded for transforming rigorous cultural research into dynamic and engaging stage performances.
“Sounds of L.A. has long been a reflection of the cultural diversity found throughout the City of Angels,” explains Laurel Kishi, performing arts manager for the J. Paul Getty Museum. “In doing so, the series continues to celebrate extraordinary resident musicians as well as those from other parts of the globe who have connections to local communities. We’re proud to be able to present these truly world-class events free of charge.”
The series opens with the West Coast debut of Oaxaca-based Pasatono Orquesta. In addition to handcrafting the indigenous instruments on which they perform, the ensemble is known for its extensive research into the culture of Mexico’s Mixtec people and their once-ubiquitous rural folk orchestras. Under the direction of Rubén Luengas, the resulting sound is rooted in the music of “the people of the clouds” and informed by American jazz of the 1920s and 1930s, when the region first gained access to wireless radio.
The performances continue on March 17 with Kayamanan Ng Lahi Philippine Folk Arts and the Rondalla Club of Los Angeles, with special guest vocalist Charmaine Clamor. From traditional gong-and-drum ensembles to string rondalla to contemporary jazz, Los Angeles’s acclaimed Kayamanan Ng Lahi Philippine Folk Arts is recognized for its commitment to presenting, promoting, and preserving Philippine culture. This program pays homage to the stunning creative diversity flowing from the Philippine islands to America’s shores.
Ending the Sounds of L.A. 2012 season, Les Charbonniers de l’Enfer make their West Coast debut on April 14. For over ten years, the superb singers comprising Les Charbonniers de l’Enfer—‘the little coalminers from hell’—have been raising roofs and wooing audiences throughout Quebec and beyond. The avid research, tight harmonies and exuberant footwork of this a cappella ensemble breathe new life into traditional Celtic music.
“Sounds of L.A. continues to surprise and delight, both in terms of the remarkable caliber of artists who grace the Getty’s stage as well as the genuine affection shown to them by our audiences,” said Sabrina Lynn Motley, longtime series curator and world music radio personality. “Although each concert is unique, in so many beautiful ways they share an ability to illuminate the region’s fascinating cultural landscape.”
All events are free, unless otherwise noted; reservations required. Limit of four seats per reservation. For tickets and information, visit www.getty.edu or call (310) 440-7300.