09/10/12

Story by Anne Hunt, 913-496-8500 Ext. 3373

Book of Gaia

Book of Gaia presents two performances at JCCC

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — Book of Gaia, a three-member female vocal ensemble, will bring two unique programs to Johnson County Community College at 9:30 a.m. and noon on Tuesday, Oct. 2, as part of the fall JCCC Jazz Series. Both performances, which are free and open to the public, will be held in the Carlsen Center’s Polsky Theatre.

The morning program, “Chant of Harlem,” is an original one-act theatrical performance celebrating the significant political, artistic, and literary contributions that occurred during the Harlem Renaissance era of American history. Spoken word, dance and visual art are infused with a historical recounting of the time. Expect to hear favorites from composers including Duke Ellington and Fats Waller. In addition to the three vocalists, featured musicians for this performance will be Matt Hopper, guitar, Gary Helm, percussion, and Pamela Baskin-Watson, piano. A question and answer session will follow the presentation.

The noon performance features the sophisticated arrangements, original compositions and intricate harmonies of Book of Gaia. The vocal ensemble weaves eclectic musical genres from classical to contemporary with an added touch of spoken word, all infused with a jazz sensibility. The result is a powerful musical experience. The three vocalists will be joined on stage by musicians Eddie Moore, piano, Tyrone Clark, bass, and Mike Warren, drums.

Book of Gaia is a multifaceted performance ensemble made up of Angela Hagenbach, Nedra Dixon and Pamela Baskin-Watson. Hagenbach is a popular entertainer at festivals and clubs, both locally and on tour. Baskin-Watson, an accomplished pianist and singer, is the composer/arranger for the group. Dixon, a theatre artist and singer, is also a regular on Kansas City’s National Public Radio program called 12th Street Jump.

Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The Jazz Series is cosponsored by the JCCC Music and Theatre departments and the Performing Arts Series Arts Education program.

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