The 2014-2015 MSUM Cheryl Nelson Lossett Performing Arts Series

Turtle Island String Quartet with singer Nellie McKay

Turtle Island String Quartet with singer Nellie McKay
"Stands tradition on its civilized ear" -People Magazine.

Two-time Grammy-winning Turtle Island Quartet joins popular singer-songwriter Nellie McKay for music of Billie Holiday, Billy Strayhorn and others. Cellist Yo -Yo Ma proclaimed TIQ to be "a unified voice that truly breaks new ground – authentic and passionate – a reflection of some of the most creative music – making today."

Thursday, September 18, 7:30 p.m., Gaede Stage

Julie Fowlis – Music of the Scottish Isles

Julie Fowlis – Music of the Scottish Isles
"There are some voices that… transport you to another place, give you goose flesh and make magic out of thin air. Julie Fowlis has just such a voice." – Evening Standard (London, England)

Still haunted by that perfect voice in Disney Pixar’s blockbuster movie Brave? It belongs to Julie Fowlis, whose singing was described by BBC Radio to be “like beautiful messages from another world.” For this concert, she’s backed by her husband Éamon Doorley, Dublin’s Tony Byrne, and Highlander fiddler Duncan Chisholm. This line-up has become synonymous with emotive, expressive and high energy live shows.

Thursday, October 23, 7:30 p.m., Hansen Theatre
http://vimeo.com/96604778

TU Dance

TU Dance
"It's gasp-inducing virtuosity – complex, poetic and deeply human." – St. Paul Pioneer Press

TU Dance, led by Alvin Ailey veterans Toni Pierce-Sands and Uri Sands, is a leading voice in the Minnesota dance scene. The company uses modern dance, classical ballet, African-based and urban vernacular movements combined in inventive and unpredictable ways. The company has received accolades such as the Minneapolis Star Tribune’s Artist of the Year, the Inaugural Princess Grace Award in Choreography, DANCE Magazine’s “25 to Watch,” and the Joyce Award.

Saturday, January 24, 7:30 p.m., Hansen Theatre

The Pedrito Martinez Group

The Pedrito Martinez Group
"The best band in NYC!" – Taj Mahal

Born in Havana, Cuba, Pedrito Martinez is a world-class conga player, singer, and bandleader in New York City. Since settling there in 1998, Pedrito has recorded and/or performed with Paquito D’Rivera, Wynton Marsalis, Paul Simon, Stefon Harris, Sting, and many others. This group sells out in New York City. Don’t miss it!

Thursday, March 5, 7:30 p.m., Hansen Theatre