SIMM Series @ The Musicians Union Hall
116 9th St @ Mission SF
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7:30pm Honda/Mezzacappa/Dessen Trio
Motoko Honda – piano/Lisa Mezzacappa – bass/Michael Dessen – trombone
8:30pm Noertker's Moxie
Annelise Zamula – alto sax, flute/Bill Noertker – contrabass/Jordan Glenn – drums/others tbd

Motoko Honda is a concert pianist, composer, and interdisciplinary artist who has created a distinctive sound through her holistic approach to music, and her exceptional sensitivity in relating to other art forms and technologies. Employing a "virtuoso technique paired with her intensely imaginative mind" (Susan Dirende, L.A. Splash Magazine), and with stylistic influences ranging from jazz to Indonesian music to contemporary prepared piano with electronics, Motoko's compositions and structured improvisations are intended to affect the skin, organs and minds of the listener rather than simple recitations of rhythmic and harmonic themes. Called both a "keyboard alchemist" (Chris Barton, L.A. Times), and the "embodiment of a muse" (Greg Burk, Metaljazz), Motoko's performances transport audiences on sonic adventures that transcend the boundaries and conventions of contemporary music.

Lisa Mezzacappa is a San Francisco Bay Area-based composer, bassist, bandleader, and producer. Called “one of the most imaginative figures on the Bay Area creative jazz scene” by The Mercury News and “a Bay Area treasure” by KQED public radio, she has been an active part of California’s vibrant music community for more than 18 years. Mezzacappa’s activities as a composer and bandleader include ethereal chamber music, electro-acoustic works, avant-garde jazz, music for groups from duo to large ensemble, and collaborations with film, dance and visual art.

Michael Dessen is a composer/trombonist who creates music for improvisers and explores technologies including live electronics, telematics and networked scores. For over two decades, he has composed and performed across a wide array of contexts, garnering critical praise and collaborating with leading artistic innovators. Dessen's music has been recognized with awards from Chamber Music America, New Music USA and the Fromm Foundation, and released by labels including Clean Feed and Cuneiform. He is based in Southern California.

Cost: sliding scale $10-20

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