Come + Play Series: UCLA

This performance features a mix of Great American Songbook standards, selections from the bebop and postbop traditions, and original compositions—brought to life by a group of musicians whose camaraderie was forged through years of studying jazz together at UCLA.

A word from Nathan Puopolo:

"Music has always been a strong part of life. I am extremely fortunate to have parents who encourage and facilitate my musical growth through their unwavering love of music. As a result of the exposure to a diverse set of artists, from Leonard Bernstein to Joe Henderson, instilled in me was a burning passion for all things music. There was no initial goal of becoming a “good” musician; my only desire was to re-create the joy I felt when listening to the music my parents showed me. As I have developed as a musician and experienced more of what life has to offer, I have realized how impactful music is when emphasized communally. Whether I’m playing Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique at Carnegie Hall with NYO or a Saturday-night bar gig with friends, there exists a persistent goal: to make music in a way that speaks to people. One artist, one recording, one concert, and even one note can create such emotional resonance that serves as motivation to get through the day. The ability to produce this emotional resonancy through the music I play and create is something I strive to do."