By Elisa Zuckerberg, Founder of HearItThere.com
Thursday, March 31, 2022
On a warm Monday night in Beacon, New York I had the pleasure of experiencing music unlike I had ever heard before.
Musician, writer and jazz advocate James Keepnews and the folks at a venue called Quinn’s in downtown Beacon welcome music fans to a weekly jazz session and a bowl of Ramen. I had been thinking about checking it out for months, but could never motivate myself to go out on a Monday evening. On this particular night they were presenting a “unique night of music,” a “one-of-a-kind quartet” including artists, Iva Bittová (violin/vocals), Thollem (keyboard), Michael Bisio (bass), and Ryan Jewell (percussion). Having done my homework, I knew that the music would be a bit “out there” and unfamiliar, but decided I was ready for a new listening experience. The place was completely packed! and I was happy to see the welcoming face of drummer extraordinaire, Bob Meyer, and snagged a stool next to him.
At first, I didn’t know what to make of the music. However, I listened with both curiosity and with an open mind. The best way I can describe this experience is colorful, abstract with a world of improvisational sounds, harmonies and yes, noise.
Much of it sounded “dissonant” to me, but as Bob reminded me, that’s not the correct term to use for this type of music and one he prefers not to use. “Is this Jazz?” I asked and he said, “Jazz has a wide veil.”
From what I understand, many in the audience knew what to expect and have great admiration for Iva Bittová. There were others who were curious like me. I looked around at all the adoring faces and was relieved when I heard someone remark, “I don’t know how to explain it, but I really like what I’m hearing.”
Bob turned towards me for a moment and said, “I hear Bartok” and vocalized the notes of a melodic phrase – “oh yeah… now I hear it,” I said, and suddenly, I understood.
I particularly enjoy attending these unique performances for the joy of watching “this audience,” a community of listeners who appreciates, or takes pleasure in, sounds and musical expression.
There’s a lesson here. As music fans, I believe we should all get out of our comfort zone once in a while. Go see a musician or band that you’re unfamiliar with. Be part of a music community that is different from the one that you’re accustomed to. It could be very rewarding, and maybe you’ll appreciate something new.
It could be a fun challenge even if we don’t love the music. We can always go back to our old favorites, the ones that always welcome us.
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