Hatchala

David Baker (b. 1993)

Originally composed as an exercise to address some of the more physical challenges of bass, this piece quickly became a theme in my practice. He would begin each day with the same scraps of melody that became this composition, often with abundant failures. This framed each practice session with a certain acceptance and challenge that seemed to imitate in some ways life itself. In honor of the persistence we all seem to find in life, I have chosen to start his recital with Hatchala (“Overture”).

Aravah

David Baker (b. 1993)

On sukkot, there are four symbolic plants used to represent different levels of doing good deeds. Aravah is meant to symbolize one who does good deeds without seeking recognition or heavenly virtue. This composition is meant to feel vaguely reminiscent of a folk dance without the pressure of aligning with any one in particular. It is a piece that is meant to be joyful in what it is with no regard to anything else in particular, much like the aravah. This composition will appear on Alexandra and I’s upcoming record Pictures in Time (2022, Next Level Records).

With a Naked Heart

David Baker (b. 1993)

A through-composed ballad that explores various tonalities over the pedal point A. The piece was inspired by the double bass playing of Avishai Cohen.

Like a Pop Song

Alexandra Sjobeck (b. 1994)

Often jazz compositions focus on complex, cerebral concepts or advanced music theory principals. “Like a Pop Song” is a divergence from this trend and is a piece designed to be palatable to all. Sometimes simplicity is a welcome respite.

Just Squeeze Me

Duke Ellington (1899-1974)

Originally composed in 1941, this composition became a popular hit and a timeless jazz standard. I’ll be performing it with a tip of the hat to a handful of those who have performed the tune prior: Coleman Hawkins, Clark Terry, Oscar Peterson, and Tommy Flanagan.

[INTERMISSION]

The Nearness of You

Hoagie Carmichael (1899-1981)

Hoagie Carmichael has contributed some of the most potent repertoire to the Great American Songbook, often with a simple, memorable melody that floats atop unusual modulations. This ballad, in contrast, is an uncomplicated tune that stays almost entirely diatonic the entire time. “The Nearness of You” describes nostalgia and comfort in being close to someone you love.

Indigo

Alexandra Sjobeck (b. 1994)

“Indigo” is a rhapsodic piece brimming with energy that takes its name from the experience of watching vast blue waters capped with waves.

Stories

Alexandra Sjobeck (b. 1994)

This piece highlights the ancestry of both Alexandra and myself—groups of immigrants who came to the United States to forge a better life. Our history is intertwined with our families and each member brings forward their own story.

Answer Song

David Baker (b. 1993)

An answer song is a postlude to another composition that serves as some form of commentary or response. This particular composition is my response to Brad Mehldau’s “Ode.” The stripped down approach to melody and harmony is meant to evoke elements of classical and pop music.

Silhouette

Alexandra Sjobeck (b. 1994)

“Silhouette” describes the universal feeling of having to hide some aspect of oneself in order to be accepted by the vocal majority. In the world of social media, building a facade becomes necessary to avoid offense or descrimination.