Cali Immersive Residency Program Celebrates A Successful Fall and Looks Ahead to Spring 2025

Daniel Bernard Roumain (DBR), Artist-in-Residence 2024-25: Throughout the fall, composer, violinist, and educator Daniel Bernard Roumain challenged students to think beyond conventional boundaries. His collaborative ethos, exemplified through inspiring discussions and inventive performances, set a powerful tone for the residencies.

Jlin (October 21–25): The forward-thinking electronic composer from Gary, Indiana, dazzled students with her genre-defying, multidimensional compositions. A math lover, former steel factory worker, and Pulitzer Prize nominee, Jlin shared her creative process and demonstrated why she has been hailed as “one of the most forward-thinking contemporary composers in any genre” (Pitchfork). Her work with artists like Björk, SOPHIE, and William Basinski, as well as commissions from the Kronos Quartet, Third Coast Percussion, and renowned choreographers, inspired Cali students to embrace new sound worlds and compositional techniques.

Doreen Ketchens (October 31 & November 1): Dubbed “Lady Louie,” “Miss Satchmo,” and “The Female Louis Armstrong,” Dr. Doreen J. Ketchens delighted students and audiences alike with her soulful clarinet playing that bridges the worlds of classical music and jazz. Recently honored with a Doctorate from Five Towns College, Dr. Ketchens has forged her own style, blending formal training with the improvisational heart of New Orleans. Her residency taught students how versatility and authenticity can reshape the way we understand and perform wind instruments.

Attacca Quartet (November 4–7 & Bridges Concert November 7): The two-time GRAMMY Award-winning string ensemble dazzled with their adventurous programming. Students explored repertoire spanning centuries and styles, gaining first-hand insights into the quartet’s innovative approach to blending classical tradition with contemporary influences.

Béla Fleck (November 19–21): The legendary banjo virtuoso introduced our emerging artists to the possibilities of cross-genre exploration. His workshops offered a rare glimpse into how an instrument steeped in tradition can unlock new forms of musical expression.

The Westerlies (February 3–8 & Bridges Concert February 8): This versatile brass quartet will bring their unique blend of jazz, classical, and Appalachian folk influences, offering students a chance to experience chamber music that is simultaneously playful, rigorous, and inventive.

Pat Metheny (February 17–19): The celebrated jazz guitarist and composer—who holds an unparalleled record of 20 GRAMMY wins in 10 different categories—will share his creative process, improvisational techniques, and stories from a storied career.

J’Nai Bridges (March 3 & 5 & Bridges Concert March 5): The American mezzo-soprano’s “rich, dark, exciting sound” and commanding stage presence will provide an unforgettable window into the world of opera, vocal artistry, and storytelling on stage.

Jake Runestad (April 24–26): The award-winning composer and conductor known for his “highly imaginative” work will engage our students in exploring the transformative power of choral and instrumental composition, challenging them to harness the power of music for positive change.