What to Expect

• A theatrical new work from a master of lyrical storytelling
• A genre-defying musical landscape featuring a singular vocalist with a 13-piece chamber ensemble
• Free pre-concert discussion about the music and artists at 7pm

Ogresse is a new musical journey created by vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant. With its dark and romantic “fairytale-like” story, Ogresse is a delightfully audacious addition to Salvant’s increasingly eclectic body of work. A generational talent adored by critics and all types of audiences, the young singer is already a master of musical storytelling, and she sells out every concert she plays at Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Musical support comes from L’Orchestre L’Ogresse, a 13-piece chamber ensemble assembled for the show by composer and bandleader Darcy James Argue. Comprised of top-tier jazz musicians and the MIVOS string quartet, the versatile group brings to life a genre-defying musical landscape dreamed up by Salvant and Argue.

Audience members will receive a copy of Salvant’s full handwritten libretto, including lyrics to Ogresse, illustrations, and a few… unusual cooking recipes preferred by the titular ogress.

Please note, there will be no intermission during this performance. Run time of the performance is 80-90 minutes.

This work was co-commissioned by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Personnel

Conductor: Darcy James Argue

Winds: Alexa Tarantino, Tom Christensen

Cornet: Kirk Knuffke

Trombone & Tuba: Josh Roseman

Guitar & Banjo: Nate Radley

Piano, Melodica & Organ: Aaron Diehl

Bass: David Wong

Percussion: Samuel Torres

MIVOS String Quartet 

Violin: Olivia De Prato, Maya Bennardo

Viola: Lowrie Tafoya

Cello: Tyler J. Borden