Renowned violinist, Regina Carter set to speak at the graduation ceremony of UCLA's Herb Alpert School of Music, scheduled for June 11.
Prominent Jazz Violinist Regina Carter to Keynote UCLA Commencement Celebration
Renowned jazz violinist Regina Carter will deliver the keynote address at The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music's 2021 commencement celebration on June 11 at 4 p.m. PDT. The virtual event will honour 130 graduates from the departments of ethnomusicology, global jazz studies, music, music industry, and musicology.
Carter, who was named artistic director of the New Jersey Performing Arts All-Female Jazz Residency in 2018, has been a trailblazer in the male-dominated jazz world. Her unique sound transcends genres and cultures, as mentioned by Eileen Strempel, the dean of The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music.
The esteemed musician has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the prestigious NEA Jazz Master award, one of the highest honours in jazz bestowed by the National Endowment for the Arts. Carter has also been acclaimed for her mastery of her instrument and expanding artistic possibilities through her work.
Carter's collaborations span a broad range of artists, from jazz legends like Dianne Reeves and Paquito D'Rivera to pop icons like Mary J. Blige and Dolly Parton. Her work with top jazz musicians across instruments and vocalists, notably performing with ensembles that feature prominent figures like John Clayton, highlights her position in top-tier ensemble work.
Moreover, Carter has opened doors for female jazz musicians with her work, helping to expand the representation and visibility of female instrumentalists in jazz. Her innovative style and advocacy through performance and education promote diversity and inspire the next generation of female jazz artists.
Arturo O'Farrill, the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music's Associate Dean for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, described Carter as the quintessential musician of the future who defines herself not by genres but by the continuum of all that connects music. O'Farrill also stated that Carter would inspire students by speaking to the issues facing music making today, including diversifying the pool so that all are invited to the table regardless of race, gender, preference, ethnicity, or aesthetic.
In addition to her keynote address, the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music's 2021 commencement celebration will feature performances by students and student remarks. Carter tours with her own group and has performed as a guest soloist with artists such as Joe Jackson, Billy Joel, and many others. She has also received the MacArthur "genius" and Doris Duke Artist Awards, and in 2018, she was nominated for a GRAMMY for Best Improvised Solo.
Carter's contributions significantly enrich the jazz landscape by broadening both instrument and gender representation within the genre. As she delivers her keynote address, Carter's inspiring journey and impact on the world of jazz will undoubtedly resonate with the graduating class and music lovers alike.
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- In addition to her renowned career as a jazz violinist, Regina Carter's advocacy for female representation in music through education and self-development initiatives, such as her role as artistic director of the New Jersey Performing Arts All-Female Jazz Residency, showcases her commitment to the entertainment industry and music learning.
- During her keynote address at UCLA's commencement celebration, Regina Carter will certainly motivate student musicians to broaden their artistic possibilities and seek inspiration from various genres and cultures, reflecting her unique approach to musical entertainment.
