The Karl Berger Improvisers Orchestra returns to the Shapeshifter Lab for its 70th performance in New York
On Thursday, May 1, the Karl Berger Improvisers Orchestra of 20+ professional string, woodwind, brass, and percussion soloists returns to the Shapeshifter Lab, Brooklyn, 18 Whitwell Place (off 1st St. btw 3rd and 4th Ave) The KBIO continues to turn improvisational ideas developed in the 7:00 pm workshop/ rehearsal into a fully formed 8:15 pm performance. Conducted in Karl’s inimitable style, developed at the legendary Creative Music Studio, this orchestra of extraordinary improvisers explores original themes and motives and melodies from the world’s folk, classical and jazz traditions, as well as musical ideas that arise spontaneously. Each player is a soloist in a suite ranging from chamber settings to full orchestral expressions. One of the orchestra's trademarks is Ingrid Sertso’s story-telling vocalization and poetry. From the rotating cast of soloists, with a solid core of regulars, this evening includes: Warren Smith, drums, John Hertenstein, John Pietaro, Hollis Headrick, percussion , Kevin Ray, bass, Jason Hwang, Sana Nagano, Ernesto Llorens, violin, Kenny Wessel, Harvey Valdes, Michael Gassmann, guitar, John Ehis, mandolin, Jason Candler, Blaise Siwula, clarinet, Matt Lavelle, cornet, Haruna Fukazawa, alto flute, Sean Sonderegger, flute, bass clarinet, Bohdan Hilash, contrabass clarinet, Yatsuno Katsuki, euphonium, Mercedes Figueras, sopr. sax, Patrick Brennan, Welf Dorr, Rocco Iacovone, alto sax, Ras Moshe, tenor sax, flute, Bill Ylitalo, baritone sax, alto flute, piccolo flute, Ingrid Sertso, vocals, and surprise guests.