Berklee Celebrates 40 Years of the Fall Together Concert
Faculty composer Greg Hopkins will be among the featured artists at this year's concert.
Berklee’s Harmony and Jazz Composition Department will present its 40th annual Fall Together concert on Wednesday, October 29, at 7:30 p.m. The performance will take place at the David Friend Recital Hall, located at 921 Boylston Street in Boston. The concert is free and open to the public.
The Fall Together concert is a yearly showcase of original compositions by jazz composition faculty, performed by the faculty jazz orchestra. Since its founding in 1985, the series has featured guest appearances by acclaimed artists such as Herb Pomeroy, Bob Brookmeyer, and many others.
“Ever since I began teaching at Berklee, the Fall Together concert has been a cherished tradition, and I continue to be inspired by the dedication and creativity of the faculty who make this annual event possible” said Ayn Inserto, assistant chair of harmony and jazz composition, and a longtime contributor to the Fall Together concert. “It’s always a joy to take part in this concert, and I look forward to the next forty years of Fall Together.”
Returning this year are faculty composers Greg Hopkins and Bob Pilkington, who have contributed works to the concert since its beginning.
Hopkins, now in his 51st year teaching, has performed with Frank Sinatra, Dizzy Gillespie, Joe Williams, Lena Horne, Gladys Knight, and a host of Motown artists. He is director of the Berklee Concert Jazz Orchestra and records as a performer and arranger with RCA Records. Pilkington, professor of jazz composition, has shared the stage with Bob Brookmeyer, the Brecker Brothers, Jimmy Giuffre, Paul Horn, Dave Liebman, Mike Stern, and Dave Weckl, among others. He has also appeared on recordings with Bob Moses, Julius Hemphill, Sam Rivers, and the Aardvark Jazz Orchestra.
Reflecting on the concert, Pilkington said, “The annual Fall Together department concert has always been a highlight of the year for me. It gives me a connection to my colleagues, players, and composers, local and beyond. Every year it provides me with an opportunity to present new music—I’ve never repeated a piece. I am very thankful for that opportunity, and I know that it is equally invaluable for my colleagues as well.”
