Vijay Iyer

This series of performances by under-recognized professionals created a memory for a lifetime. The intelligence and humility of Iyer's observations, combined with his astonishing ability to be productive anywhere on the spectrum between structured composition and creative improvisation -- as well as the generosity and diversity of his co-creative collaborations--are just some of the factors as to why I find every live performance a learning experience. Thank you to Tyshawn Sorey, Jennifer Koh, George Lewis, and Rudresh Mahanthappa for your inspiring contributions to the evening! #bettertogether

Very interesting concert. The interviews with musicians and a composer enriched the experience. I had heard Vijay Iyer several times before with different ensembles, and this was different again. There was discussion of the Ojai festival of jazz and new nusic in June, where Iyer will be music director, and this concert felt like a preview.

The saxophonist Leo Wadada Smith could not make it and was replaced by Rudresh Mahanthappa, whom I had heard before and not enjoyed. Last night was a different story. A reminder to keep an open mind.

Wadada Leo Smith (trumpet) and Vijay Iyer (piano, Rhodes, and synthesizer) co-created structured, harmonious, abstract magic.

The acoustics and intimacy at National Sawdust deserve concerts of this caliber consistently. (Jherek Bischoff's album release of "Cistern" for small orchestra is another notable example.)

Please contact me if you would like to continue this conversation: ryn@sciencedriven.net

Ryn Miake-Lye
neighbor

Vijay Iyer and Wadada Leo Smith played songs inspired by their recent ECM CD" A Cosmic Rhythm with Each Stroke".

The concert was a wonderful amalgam of piano and moog synthesizer by Iyer along with the long trumpet tones made famous by Smith.

Wonderful show buy two masters at their peak!

In addition to his prodigious talents as a creative leader, profesor, pianist, and composer, he takes collaboration to a next level. This performance with Teju Cole, Patricia Brennan, Okkyeoung Lee, and Stephen Crump of "Blind Spot" was astonishing, intelligent, and memorable.

945 Clay is a fantastic and intimate venue and the show itself was incredible. Lots of great vibes and I learned a lot about the history of Asian Improv as well.