The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) hosted an extraordinary performance by acclaimed Jazz pianist, composer, and arranger John Beasley. Presented by the Embassy of the United States in the United Arab Emirates, John Beasley’s MONK’estra Quartet provided audiences with an enthralling experience, merging classic jazz with contemporary harmonies.
The performance, held last night at The Black Box, was attended by a select audience that included representatives from the Embassy of the United States in the United Arab Emirates, including Charge d’Affaires Steven Bondy, Country Public Affairs Officer Scott Boltz, Cultural Attaché Lauren Willy, as well as Executive Artistic Director of The Arts Center Bill Bragin, and members of The Arts Center at NYUAD. Continuing The Arts Center’s fifth anniversary season, the evening built on its mission of bringing diverse communities together through shared artistic experiences while celebrating its unique traditions as well as common humanity.
John Beasley, four time Grammy Awards nominee, started his career as a pianist working with jazz icons such as Miles Davis and Freddie Hubbard. His versatile experience in the music industry took part in shaping his musical identity, which combines the traditional and the modern.
Beasley performed with his all-star band, which consists of harmonica player Grégoire Maret, drummer Terreon Gully, and bassist Tabari Lake. The concert was followed by a conversation with the audience, moderated by Bill Bragin, The Arts Center’s Executive Artistic Director.
The Arts Center at NYUAD is a performing arts center that presents distinguished professional artists from around the world alongside student, faculty, and community productions.
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