David Arnay
This January, you can experience the serenity of the Storrier Stearns Japanese Gardens and their commitment to art through the Second Sunday Jazz Concert Series. This entirely new program will feature local jazz pianist and composer, David Arnay, and a program of original and progressive jazz. Arnay explains that the music will feature mostly acoustic instruments and “explore the softer end of the dynamic spectrum.” He plans to collaborate with local musicians each month.
Arnay is on faculty at the USC Thornton School of Music and is also the Music Director at the Smith Brothers Restaurant Corporation, performing at Pasadena’s Parkway Grill on Friday nights. At the gardens on January 8 he will be performing with percussionist Aaron Serfaty (a USC colleague), and bassist Jeff D’Angelo.
“It’s quite a lovely place with a tranquil vibe, “said Arnay. “I’ll be moving the music in that direction.”
The first concert in the series will take place indoors in the cozy living room of the house. This intimate venue sets about 60 people and will be the focus of the afternoon; although, the garden will be open for a short period before and after the performance.
“We’ve discovered over the years that any kind of music in the garden is just magical,” said
Meher McArthur, Creative Director of the Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden.
Previous concerts have included traditional Japanese music, blends of Eastern and Western music and ‘60s rock. This concert will be the first in a series of jazz concerts that encourage the community to engage with music and explore the unique calm of the garden.
The concert will take place on Sunday, January 8 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m at the Storrier Stearns Japanese Gardens; 270 Arlington Drive, Pasadena. Tickets are $20 and reservations are required. Visit www.japanesegardenpasadena.com/programs.html to make reservations, starting on January 3, or call (626) 399-1721 for more information.