On April 5 at 7:30 p.m. in Willamette University’s Hudson Hall, the Grace Goudy Distinguished Artists Series will present Grammy-winning jazz pianist Billy Childs and the Ying Quartet.
“Billy Childs and the Ying Quartet represent a unique fusion and collaboration — the type of creativity outside of stylistic boxes, which is one future direction in music,” said Jean-David Coen, series director and artist-in-residence at Willamette University.
One part of this musical fusion, Billy Childs, picked up his fifth Grammy Award in 2017, this for Best Jazz Instrumental Album. About his collaborators, The Los Angeles Times wrote, “The Ying Quartet came as close to the ideal as possible, delivering chamber music of astonishing, refreshing exaltation and exhilaration.”
They will perform Childs' composition "The River, The Bird, and the Storm" together, with the Ying Quartet adding works by Haydn and Beethoven. Both will lead master classes for Willamette students on April 6 at 11 a.m. in Hudson Hall. The public is welcome to observe.
Tickets are $23, with discounts for seniors, students, Oregon Trail Card holders, and Willamette faculty and staff. Entry is free for Willamette students. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. for the 7:30 p.m. performance. For tickets or more information, visit willamette.edu/go/musicstore or call the music office at 503-370-6255.