LENOX — Saxophonist extraordinaire Grace Kelly returns to the Berkshiresto help close out Berkshire Jazz's weeklong 2024 Fall Jazz Sprawl with a special concert, Grace Kelly with Strings: At the Movies.
Kelly will appear in concert, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13, at Shakespeare & Company with her 15 piece large-ensemble conducted by Bryan Carter, augmented by the Kids 4 Harmony advanced ensemble, a free classical music program for Berkshire youth from under-resourced communities, who also play with the likes of Emanuel Ax at Tanglewood every summer.
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Kelly, a singer-saxophonist-songwriter-composer and band leader, has 15 albums under her belt including her latest release, “Grace Kelly with Strings: At the Movies,” which will be the core of her performance. The music was inspired by "Charlie Parker with Strings," Parker being one of her muses. She combines this with her fondness for movie music, with the result being some reimagined cinema tunes including compositions from Disney flicks, "Back to the Future," "Pirates of the Caribbean" and new arrangements of Billie Eilish “No Time To Die.”
BerkshiresWeek.com recently caught up with Kelly via email during her recent concert tour in Asia. Her responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.
BERKSHIRES WEEK: When did you first hear Charlie Parker’s music? And, what was the tune?
GRACE KELLY: I first heard Charlie Parker’s music when I started playing the saxophone at 10 years old. My teacher introduced me to the song “My Little Suede Shoes,” and I fell in love with it! I even performed it at my first public concert as a bandleader at 12, as a duet with drummer Yoron Israel. Fun fact: I tap danced and played sax on that song after someone dared me, knowing I was studying tap. I thought, "Wouldn’t that be wild!" So, I went straight to the practice room to make it happen.
BERKSHIRES WEEK:What was it about his music that touched you?
KELLY: I loved the melody of "My Little Suede Shoes." It’s one of his catchiest tunes, and perfect for beginners since the harmony isn’t too complex. From there, I explored more of his music, learning standards like “Blues for Alice” and “Ornithology.” His work introduced me to the language of bebop.
BERKSHIRES WEEK:Your latest jazz album, since 2016, has just been released, though you've released albums in other genres since then. What’s the difference in how you prepare for a studio session versus a live gig?
KELLY:In the studio, I love how you can focus on every little detail. It’s a space where I can experiment, layering different takes, playing with sounds and really shape the music over time. For example, you can use different microphones, adjust the mix in your headphones and really get into the subtleties of the performance. Live gigs, on the other hand, are about creating a full experience in the moment. I prepare not just the music but also how I’ll interact with the audience through singing, dancing and speaking. It’s all about the energy and connection in real time.
BERKSHIRES WEEK:Which do you prefer, live gigs or studio work? Has this always been your preference?
KELLY:I love both for different reasons. They require slightly different skills, but both come from the same musicianship. Live performances hold a special place in my heart because of the connection with the audience and the energy of the moment. Over time, I’ve also come to love the studio process, especially the control and creativity I can bring to shaping the sound.
BERKSHIRES WEEK:You teach as well as perform. What does teaching do to support your artistry?
KELLY:Teaching helps me break down and clarify concepts, making them clearer in my own mind. My students inspire me, too,—many are writing their own music and exploring different genres, like combining sax with electronic dance music.
BERKSHIRES WEEK:If you could master another instrument to your level of proficiency with the sax, what would it be and why?
KELLY:Guitar. I just love the sound of the instrument and the wide range of possibilities it offers.
BERKSHIRES WEEK:What are you hoping the audience in the Berkshires will take away from hearing you play with Kids 4 Harmony?
KELLY:I’m excited for these talented Kids 4 Harmony students to join my ensemble for a few songs. Kids 4 Harmony is an incredible, free classical music program for youth from under-resourced communities in Berkshire County. Programs like this are often life changing for students, shaping their musicianship and building confidence. I hope the audience will be inspired by these young talents and support the next generation of musicians.
IF YOU GO
What: 2024 Fall Jazz Sprawl: "Grace Kelly with Strings: At the Movies"
Who: Berkshires Jazz, Grace Kelly, Bryan Carter, Kids 4 Harmony
Where: Tina Packer Playhouse, Shakespeare & Company, 70 Kemble St. Lenox
When: 7:30 p.m. Oct. 13
Tickets: $33.50-$123.50
Information and reservations: berkshiresjazz.org
