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The Grammy-winning bassist and composer brings her quintet to Finney Chapel, exploring connection, resilience, and the power of improvisation to unite audiences.

Les Misérables on Broadway. Yo-Yo Ma. The Sala Sao Paulo. Metallica. What do these musical names all have in common? They are the professional connections you can find among the members of the American Brass Quintet, set to perform in Oberlin on Friday, February 20.

Ahead of the group’s Oberlin debut on November 21, violinist Frederik Øland talks exploring the U.S., teaching the next generation, and nerding out on late Beethoven. 

The octet, know for their eclectic repertoire, are heading into their third decade with a personnel change and a continued commitment to connection through music, including a workshop and Artist Recital Series appearance on campus this month.

This collective of musicians reinterprets American folk tunes through their varied cultural backgrounds and musical training. And on September 13 at 7:30 pm, the group will perform in Finney Chapel as part of the Artist Recital Series.

“Strum,” “Strike,” and “Bend” are all evocative references to the physicality of string and percussion instruments. And one is especially significant.

The vocalist and songwriter brings her distinct blend of folk, blues, gospel, and more to Finney Chapel on April 6 in an appearance with the Martha Redbone Roots Project.

Celebrated violinist and pedagogue Midori concludes a two-part Oberlin residency on March 5, reuniting with pianist Özgür Aydin to perform a program inspired by poetry and folk music.

Throughout his decades of playing chamber music, Emanuel Ax has kept his friends close. “ It’s wonderful to have people on stage that you like,” the pianist says. “I’m pretty gregarious as a person, so I like being with someone, especially old friends.”

Nicknamed the “Hendrix of the kora,” Seckou Keita is today’s most influential and inspiring performer on the instrument, and is considered a leader of the newest generation of African traditional musicians, fusing traditional forms and instruments with those of other cultures.