Recital Celebrates Prolific Career of Alec Wilder

Celebrated jazz pianist Laura Caviani will present “Songs by Alec Wilder” on January 31 at 3 p.m. in the Carleton College Concert Hall. This event is free and open to the public.

Caviani’s interest in Wilder’s music dates back to her college days. “[His] music appealed to me as a college student back in the 80s because his compositions bridged the gap between jazz and classical music… and since most of my life has been devoted to playing strictly jazz, his music is a perfect middle ground for me to dip my little toe back into the classical realm.” Caviani was also inspired by Wilder’s life story.  He led a long and prolific life, composing for the likes of Frank Sinatra, Eileen Farrell, Marian McPartland and Stan Getz.  But because Wilder’s music was hard to categorize, he rarely received the recognition he deserved and remains a relatively obscure 20th century composer to this day. Caviani hopes her recital can spark interest in his music once again. 

This recital reflects a collaboration of several faculty members. The opening piece, one of Wilder's many “Sonatas for Horn,” will feature Carleton faculty member Gwen Anderson. Voice faculty Patricia Kent and Rick Penning will also sing a wide variety of Wilder's songs, some qualifying as art songs, others as fun, quippy jazz songs. Then guest artists Gordy Johnson (bass) and Phil Hey (drums) will join the stage for the second half of the performance. The range of songs and genres covered should make for a fun survey of Wilder’s contributions to music.

Caviani received her BM in Composition from Lawrence University and MM in Improvisation from the University of Michigan. She has taught at St. John's University, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, the University of St. Thomas, and many middle schools in Minneapolis through the "Harman How to Listen Program.” Caviani has performed and recorded for over 15 years, including four highly acclaimed albums: “Dreamlife,” “As One,” “Angels We Haven't Heard,” and “In Your Own Sweet Way.” She has also recorded and toured with the 2002 Grammy nominee Karrin Allyson (Concord Records) and with other greats such as Toots Theilemans, Bob Mintzer, and Dave Leibman. More information about Caviani can be found at: http://www.lauracaviani.com.

The Carleton College Concert Hall is located at First Street and Winona Street in Northfield. For more information or disability accommodations, contact the music department at (507) 222-4475.