Announcing the 45th Season of the Artist-Lecture Series
Beppe Gambetta
September 24, 2009
7:00 pm
Akin Auditorium
From his unique background as an Italian musician in love with both American roots music as well as the music of his native country, Beppe Gambetta has traveled the world to dazzle and charm music enthusiasts. Gambetta still lives in his native Genova and has performed in such venues as the prestigious Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. He naturally and seamlessly bridges the shores of the two continents, creating a musical fusion where American root music and Ligurian tradition not only co-exist but interact.
The Rev. Al Sharpton
September 30, 2009
7:00 pm
Akin Auditorium
Alfred Charles "Al" Sharpton, Jr. is an American Baptist minister, civil rights activist, and radio talk show host. In 2004, he was a candidate for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. presidential election. He plays host to his own radio talk show, Keepin' It Real and makes regular guest appearances on Fox News, CNN, and MSNBC.
Tony McManus
November 13, 2009
7:00 pm
Akin Auditorium
In a little more than 10 years as a professional musician, Tony McManus has come to be recognized throughout the world as the leading guitarist in Celtic music. From early childhood his twin obsessions of traditional music and acoustic guitar have worked together to produce a startlingly original approach to this ancient art.
Dr. Richard Heinzl
February 1, 2010
7:00 pm
Akin Auditorium
In 1988, just out of medical school, Richard Heinzl founded Doctors Without Borders Canada, the Nobel Prize-winning humanitarian organizations. Shortly thereafter he became its first field volunteer, spending an extraordinary year in remote Cambodia. Hundreds of volunteers have since followed in his footsteps. He will share his stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things in the midst of war and other challenges.
Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band
February 25, 2010
7:00 pm
Akin Auditorium
Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band, an 18-piece jazz ensemble, celebrates and personifies the best of the big band tradition with a very contemporary and original sound. Through the writing genius of Gordon Goodwin, audiences have enjoyed one of the most craftsman-like hard swinging large jazz ensembles comprised of L.A.'s finest musicians. Gordon's witty and insightful arrangements propel the listener on a journey through a myriad of styles: Latin, blues, swing, classical, hard-hitting jazz, and even homage to Looney Tunes.
Sloane Crosley
March 8, 2010
7:00 pm
Akin Auditorium