The Jazz Bringer

When Concordia orchestra leader Marin Alsop raises her baton at Alice Tully Hall this June 4, it will be in honor of innovative composer Samuel Barber. But one day Lincoln Center may honor Alsop for her innovation. In 1984, the 36-year-old conductor founded Concordia, a group of 50 musicians who are adept at playing both jazz and classical music. One happy result of this venture is that it has been able to present in concert form an important repertory that has been heretofore relegated to a somewhat marginal status. Concordia programs pieces that a classical orchestra might deem too outrageous, and that a regular jazz ensemble simply might not have the resources to perform—such as Duke Ellington's version of "The Nutcracker Suite." Another is that the group performs in concert halls rather than smoky, crowded jazz clubs.

The work of Concordia has helped to narrow the chasm between classical style and jazz, and to debunk the exclusivity with which both the longhairs and the hip have sought to surround their favorite music. Be on the lookout for special programs from Concordia next year, when it will be celebrating its 10th anniversary.

DAVID DANIEL