Asia America Symphony Association And Ryman Arts Present MUSIC ON CANVAS Performed To Gershwin's AN AMERICAN IN PARIS

The ASIA AMERICA YOUTH SYMPHONY (AAYS) will premiere its first ever, "Music On Canvas". David Benoit, Music Director and Conductor, will lead the prestigious AAYS in a performance of Gershwin's classic "An American In Paris" while young artists from RYMAN ARTS create inspired artworks live on stage to the music.

"We are so excited to partner with Ryman Arts for our season opener with this unique blending of live music and art. In our quest to reach out to organizations with a similar mission, youth and the arts, the marriage of music and visual arts intertwine perfectly for this performance," says Alison Jamele, AASA President.

Diane Brigham, Executive Director of Ryman Arts continues, "In collaboration with the Asia America Youth Symphony, we are delighted to celebrate the talents of artistic youth in Southern California in both music and art. As guests listen to the beautiful musical performance, they will see the visual art inspired by it take shape on canvas. Alumni artists from Ryman Arts, like the young musicians of AAYS, represent the passion, hard work, skill and creativity that are hallmarks of both our programs."

To further entertain you, Maestro Benoit will debut his brand new composition, "The Great Wall," inspired by his travels in Beijing China. Benoit will lead the orchestra in an array of music contours from Gershwin to Borodin's "The Steppes of Central Asia" to a surfin' medley arranged by Benoit himself. Go no further to hear and experience the Symphony's musical palette stretching from the classics, to pop and new genres.

Concert: Sunday, May 5, 2019 at 7 p.m., James Armstrong Theater, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance. Ticket prices: Preferred - $40 | General - $25 | Students with ID - $15. Tickets can be purchased online at http://aasymphony.org/ or call 310-377-8977.

About Ryman Arts:

Ryman Arts is a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) organization established in 1990 to honor legendary Disney artist and mentor Herbert D. Ryman. Ryman Arts creates access and opportunity for young artists through free studio art skills training and mentoring. Ryman Arts has educated thousands of Southern California teens from over 190 communities and provided outreach to over 20,000 underserved students.

These students choose to attend Saturdays at California State University, Fullerton or Sundays at Otis College of Art & Design. Almost all Ryman Arts graduates go on to college, many alumni work in the creative industries, and all are poised for personal success. Information: https://rymanarts.org/ .

About David Benoit:

David Benoit's career spans over three decades as a contemporary jazz pianist and composer, including over 30 solo recordings that have garnered him five Grammy nominations. Benoit's talents expand into symphonic orchestral music endeavors that include his ongoing role as Music Director & Conductor of the Asia America Symphony Orchestra and Youth Symphony as well as the on-air radio host weekday mornings on KKJZ 88.1 FM. Information: http://benoit.com/.

About Asia America Symphony Association (AASA):

The Asia America Symphony Association is dedicated to developing and mentoring young musicians, exposing and promoting music appreciation as well as supporting and partnering with similar organizations by providing educational and performing opportunities in a professional environment featuring classical and jazz concerts and integrating a wide array of music influences and styles from around the world. Information: http://aasymphony.org/.

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