This season features ensembles lauded for their energizing and meticulously crafted performances.
“Sounds of L.A. reflects the cultural diversity of Los Angeles,” says Laurel Kishi, performing arts manager for the J. Paul Getty Museum. “This annual series continues to celebrate extraordinary local musicians as well as those from around the world who connect to communities here at home. We’re proud to be able to present these truly world-class events free of charge.”
The season begins on January 17 and 18 with Christine Balfa and Balfa Toujours, a name that conjures memories of the famous Balfa Brothers, who took their soulful music from the prairies of Mamou, Louisiana, to the far corners of the earth. Led by Christine Balfa, daughter of the legendary Cajun fiddle ambassador Dewey Balfa, the group has taken generations of inspiration and created a vibrant sound all their own.
Yuri Yunakov and the Yunakov Ensemble take the stage on February 7 & 8, with their virtuosic technique, dynamic key changes, and eclectic influences. Turkish-Bulgarian Roma saxophonist Yuri Yunakov is one of the pioneers of Bulgarian wedding music, a NEA National Heritage Fellow, and a tireless champion of the music and the extraordinary culture from which it comes. Simply put, Yunakov’s concerts are an untethered celebration of what makes life worth living. Complements the exhibition Josef Koudelka: Nationality Doubtful on view through March 22, 2015.
Sounds of L.A. concludes on March 14 and 15 with Ricardo Lemvo and Makina Loca, L.A.’s very own ambassadors of Angolan soul. They return to the Getty Center with their signature mix of African soukous and Cuban rumba. Their latest project, La Rumba Soy Yo, has been called “a street party you have to dance your way through, [filled with] bright horns, fantastic bass lines, amazing percussion, and melodies that linger for days.” These local favorites are the perfect end to this season of Sounds of L.A.
“Sounds of L.A. always surprises and delights, both in the remarkable caliber of the artists as well as the genuine affection our audiences have for them,” says Sabrina Lynn Motley, longtime series curator. “Although each concert is unique, they all illuminate the region’s fascinating cultural landscape.”
Sounds of L.A. 2015 Schedule
All events are free, unless otherwise noted; reservations required. Limit of four seats per reservation. For tickets and information, visit www.getty.edu or call (310) 440-7300.
Sounds of L.A.: Christine Balfa and Balfa Toujours
Date: Saturday & Sunday, January 17 & 18, 2015
Time: Saturday, 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, 3:30 p.m.
Admission: Free; reservations required. Call (310) 440-7300 or visit www.getty.edu for reservations. Limit of four seats per reservation.
Sounds of L.A.: Yuri Yunakov and the Yunakov Ensemble
Date: Saturday & Sunday, February 7 & 8, 2015
Time: Saturday, 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, 3:30 p.m.
Location: Harold M. Williams Auditorium , Getty Center
Admission: Free; reservations required. Reservations available beginning Tuesday, January 20, 2015, at 9:00 a.m. Call (310) 440-7300 or visit www.getty.edu for reservations. Limit of four seats per reservation.
Sounds of L.A.: Ricardo Lemvo and Makina Loca
Date: Saturday and Sunday, March 14 and 15, 2015
Time: Saturday, 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, 3:30 p.m.
Location: Harold M. Williams Auditorium, Getty Center
Admission: Free; reservations required. Reservations available beginning Thursday, February 19, 2015, at 9:00 a.m. Call (310) 440-7300 or visit www.getty.edu. Limit of four seats per reservation.
Image: Christine Balfa and Balfa Toujours. Photo by Terri Fensel