Performance Name: Ramsey Lewis Trio and Ann Hampton Callaway
Location: Wharton Center Cobb Great Hall
Date/time: Wednesday, October 21, 2009 – 7:30 p.m.
Performance Type: Jazz Trio and Singer
Websites: http://www.ramseylewis.com/ and http://www.annhamptoncallaway.com/
Thoughts: There are many things that make a great performance, but one key thing I thought about tonight was how engaged the audience is. That is a true maker of a great performer is how well they make the audience feel like they are part of the performance and not just the audience. I find concerts must more enjoyable when I feel like they are having a conversation with me and sharing their talents and music with me personally. It gives a more warm and engaged feeling than when the performer gives the vibe that they are performing for the group if I feel they recognize the audience at all. This applies to many parts of life too – this example is one of the reasons I like NPR News – I get the feeling they are sharing the news with me through a conversation instead of just pushing it at me.
Tonight I also thought about how all music has both an individual part and a group part. I think jazz really emphasizes this. It is much like a track and field relay or swimming relay event. Each person in the group/team has their own special skills, talent, and style. They all get a chance to showcase their individuality while working for the common goal of the group. They play off each other and encourage each other along while recognizing each individual’s skills. A nice duality that makes for great music.
Pet Peeve of the Evening: The required standing ovation. It seems like every performance I go to these days people give a standing ovation. Either my standard of excellence is higher than most people or people think any performance should get a standing ovation. I’m starting to take the stand (or is it sit) but only standing when I feel it was a truly spectacular performance, instead of just standing because everyone else did. It is a little annoying not being able to see the stage, but I’ll survive.
Repeat Rating: On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being a free day long trip to the dentist for a root canal and 10 being a free day long trip to Disney World, the chance I’d see this performance again is a 5.