The incredibly talented Clarice Assad, a multi-instrumentalist and acclaimed composer, will lead the performance alongside alongside Alecia Lawyer, oboist and fearless leader of ROCO, and several other exceptional musicians, including a special appearance by iconoclastic pianist Lara Downes, renowned pianist and musical innovator and the celebrated Invoke ensemble. Together, they will deliver a captivating program that blurs the lines between Latin American, classical, and popular musical styles, surrounded by the serene beauty of over 400 birds from around the globe.

Clarice Assad

Clarice Assad, the Brazilian-American powerhouse of music, is a Grammy-nominated composer, pianist, vocalist, and educator who commands a vast range across classical, jazz, pop, and world music genres. Renowned for her evocative soundscapes and innovative approach, she captivates audiences with her ability to blend genres and engage listeners interactively, as seen in her dynamic work “É Gol!” inspired by soccer legend Marta. A prolific composer and performer with over 90 works to her name, Assad collaborates with esteemed orchestras worldwide and promotes music education through her award-winning VOXploration program. Holding influential positions, her compositions have garnered critical acclaim and reflected her commitment to social issues, while she brings her multicultural background and multilingual skills to every performance. With accolades including multiple ASCAP awards and an Aaron Copland Award, Assad continues to redefine the boundaries of music, inspiring new generations through both her artistry and educational initiatives.

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Lara Downes

American pianist Lara Downes, recently honored as NPR’s Classical Woman of the Year, is a trailblazing artist hailed as “a musical ray of hope” by NBC News and celebrated for her innovative approach to classical music, focusing on the underrepresented and forgotten. As a Billboard Chart-topping recording artist and beloved NPR personality, she connects with millions through her dynamic concerts, popular video series AMPLIFY, and collaborations with a diverse array of artists and composers. Her acclaimed projects aim to foster community and shared experience, while her latest initiatives, including The Declaration Project, engage audiences in exploring the essence of American ideals and the pursuit of joy and equality. With performances scheduled across prestigious venues and a commitment to advocating for democracy through artistry, Lara Downes is not only redefining classical music but also shaping cultural conversations for future generations.

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Alecia Lawyer

Alecia Lawyer is a visionary force in the classical music world, known for her daring approach and groundbreaking initiatives as the Founder and Artistic Director of ROCO, Houston’s innovative 40-piece ensemble. A Juilliard-trained oboist, she has redefined how classical music is perceived and accessed through unique programs like Braille concert materials, QR codes for streaming, and the ROCOrooters music education initiative. Emphasizing relationship-building over monetary transactions, her “pay what you wish” model has attracted substantial philanthropic support, enabling ROCO to premiere 132 new works while garnering a GRAMMY® nomination for Producer of the Year. Lawyer’s commitment to community engagement is exemplified by her “ROCO on the Go” initiative, which integrates music into public spaces, fostering accessibility and cultural enrichment. Recognized as one of Musical America’s Top 30 Influencers and a finalist for Texas Musician of the Year, she passionately shares her insights on orchestra building across the country and serves in various leadership roles.

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Program Highlights include works by:  

• Tom Jobim (Quebra-Pedra; Chovendo na Roseira)
• Heitor Villa-Lobos (Cair Da Tarde)
• Astor Piazzolla (Yo soy Maria; Los pájaros Perdidos)
• Clarice Assad (The Last Song; various other selections)
• Kelly Vaneman (Play)
• And possible surprise guests!