Jazz saxophonist Brad Leali to peform with West Texas Symphony
In his live debut orchestral performance, Brad Leali, one of the most notable jazz saxophonists today, will perform with the West Texas Symphony inside the world-class Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center on March 4.
The show, beginning at 7:30 p.m. will feature Leali in a new and innovative collaboration with the West Texas Symphony, which consists of over 70 professional musicians. The collaboration will include selections of “Charlie Parker with Strings” as well as original works written and arranged by Leali.
“I have enjoyed working with Brad and Maestro Lewis to develop a brand new program that respects both the orchestral and jazz genres,” said Ethan Wills, executive director for the West Texas Symphony.
Leali, currently a professor of Jazz Saxaphone at the University of Northern Texas, has toured and recorded with numerous jass greats, including several years with Harry Connick, Jr. Orchestra and with teh Count Basie Orchestra. He’s also performed worldwide with music icons like Steve Wonder, Kid Rock, Beyoncé, Billy Joel, Vanessa Williams, Robert Downy Jr., and many more. He was a standing member of the Kennedy Centers Honor Band and performed for President Obama’s inaugural celebration.
When not teaching, he has a successful solo career including a few music albums and continues performing domestically and abroad, such as touring with Lyle Lovett & His Large Band. The West Texasy Symphony described Leali as having a unique style and sound echoing influences of his past. The New York Times has called him “soulful and exciting.”
The March 4 event, called “Brad Leali, Saxophone,” is part of West Texas Symphony’s Pops & Family Series generously underwritten by the Wood Family Foundation. Tickets start at $32 – $52 and can be purchased at WTXS.ORG or by calling 800-514-3849. All student tickets are $8 with a paying adult or valid college ID. A special discount is offered for this event exclusively for members of the West Texas Jazz Society. “Brad Leali, Saxophone” is generously sponsored by SAULSBURY, FirstCapital Bank of Texas, West Texas National Bank, Basin PBS, and KMID BIG2.
