Omar Thomas on making “Griot Songs” at GBH
Omar Thomas is a large ensemble composer who’s had work commissioned by Eastman New Jazz Ensemble, the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus, and the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. His newest album, “Griot Songs,” was recorded entirely in the GBH Fraser Performance Studio. He spoke to Al Davis and Va Lynda Robinson about the process.
Music & Culture Events
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In Person
GBH Music Presents: Christina Day Martinson and Friends
Join Grammy-nominated baroque violinist Christina Day Martinson and her acclaimed collaborators for an intimate recital celebrating her extraordinary career and the forthcoming documentary A Second Movement, which captures her life story and artistry. The evening showcases the full breadth of Christina’s musical expression, featuring selections from her Grammy-nominated album Biber: The Mystery Sonatas alongside new compositions. Hosted by WCRB’s Brian McCreath, this special performance also includes conversations with Christina and features guest performers: theorbo player Michael Leopold, composer and pianist Olivia Pérez-Collellmir, and composer/musician Mehmet Ali Sanlıkol.
Photo credit: Courtesy of A Second Movement.
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Culture in the News
Kick back with one of our 2025 summer-reading selections
Three local librarians share their picks for every kind of reader for this summer.
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Why the 'Battle of Versailles' still resonates 50 years later
On Nov. 28, 1973, a fashion show rocked the Palace of Versailles and forever changed our understanding of style. -
The Genius Next Door: Harvard's Imani Perry on the history and culture forged by Black Americans
Last year, interdisciplinary scholar and writer Imani Perry was named one of the MacArthur "genius" grant fellows for 2023. She's one of four local awardees, part of Under the Radar's series, "The Genius Next Door." -
Red Sox to star in Netflix documentary on the 2024 season
Netflix will also release a documentary later this year looking at the 2004 World Series championship Sox team.
GBH Music
More Culture Programs
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Episode 4, Season 16<br> Freedom Hill
Princeville, NC, once the all Black town of ‘Freedom Hill,’ faces flooding and erosion. -
Behind the Scenes with Cirque du Soleil's Band
Go behind the scenes of Cirque du Soleil with music director Aaron Guidry.| 4:55 -
Niccolò Paganini Descendent Debunks Family Rumors
Scott Yoo meets with a descendent of Paganini to discuss the virtuoso's life.| 2:57 -
Episode 15, Season 51<br> Now Hear This “Virtuosos”
Explore the work of two legendary virtuosos, Niccolò Paganini and Robert Johnson.| 53:24