On December 6, 2015, the Atlanta Lovers of Music Association (ALOMA) is pleased to present a home concert with Israeli saxophonist and composer Uri Gurvich and his band. Based in New York, Gurvich has won great acclaim as a bandleader who consistently features some of the most prominent voices on the contemporary jazz scene. The Los Angeles Times wrote that Gurvich’s music “transcends borders,” placing Israeli, Yemenite, East European and North African music into a progressive jazz context. With Asen Doykin, piano, Peter Slavov, bass, Francisco Mela, drums.
ALOMA presents a unique concert experience for both musicians and the audience, as each concert is given in a private home. We spoke with Posey Miller, who is on the Board of Directors for ALOMA, about his involvement with ALOMA and what makes their concerts so rewarding.
How did you get involved with ALOMA (Atlanta Lovers of Music Association)?
I was a member of another organization named SOJA (Southeast Organization for Jazz Arts) before my involvement with ALOMA. The home concert idea came from SOJA but featured only jazz. It dissolved in 2011 shortly after one of the co-founders relocated to New York. Some of the SOJA former members including myself and a few concert attendees came together a year later to form another organization that would continue the home concert format with the exception that we would feature other genres of music in addition to jazz. It has proven to be extremely popular with most of our concerts selling out within a few days. We have featured blue grass, blues, classical music, Brazilian and Indian music in addition to jazz.
How does ALOMA choose its musicians for home concerts?
Our artists, mostly local musicians, are chosen from inquiries we receive from them and occasionally inquiries by us on the availability of particular artists who have developed a reputation for excellence and a significant fan following. We also present up and coming talented artists to ensure they have the opportunity to perform before an audience of supportive music lovers. Occasionally ALOMA has had the opportunity to present internationally recognized artists when they are traveling in the region.
The most unique part of ALOMA is that concerts take place in private homes. How do these intimate settings benefit both musicians and the audience?
The home environment is unique in its setting. It provides an environment of intimacy and closeness with the music and musicians that other venues can’t do. Since there are no tables, attendees sit side by side thus affording music lovers, from various backgrounds, the opportunity to become acquainted with one another. This relationship opportunities strengthen the bonds between our frequent concert attendees leading to collaborations in a variety of other endeavors.
What sounds will the Uri Gurvich Quartet bring to their concert next weekend?
The Uri Gurvich quartet is unique in its ability to bring elements of traditional American jazz music, Israeli, Northern African and Yemeni influences together. It should be a terrific concert.