Grand Evening of Music: Tim McAllister and Liz Ames Perform at Nutt Auditorium
Oxford, Mississippi: Attendees were in for a treat on Monday, March 4, as world-renowned saxophonist Tim McAllister and accomplished concert pianist Liz Ames took to the stage at the David H. Nutt Auditorium for a night of mesmerizing music and soothing sounds.
Hosted by the University of Mississippi, McAllister and Ames brought their illustrious careers and immense talent to the stage of the Nutt Auditorium, captivating the audience with their undeniable chemistry and deeply affecting performances.
A Night of Intriguing Compositions and Profound Performances
Most of the night’s program focused on McAllister and Ames’s latest collaborative effort- their album, “Project Encore, Vol. 1”. A mesmerizing compilation, the album is described by the artists as a “labor of love”. Dedicated to showcasing underrepresented artists, the collection of tracks consists of works from composers often overlooked in the world of music.
The duo, committed to using their platform for promoting diversity and inclusion in their musical repertoire, described curation and commission work as a form of activism for these neglected voices.
Their belief in this mission was clearly seen in their performances. A rendition of Jennifer Jolley’s “Lilac Tears” left the hall wrapped in its haunting melody, while Zoey Cutler’s “Obstacle Illusion” set hearts racing. The aptitude and craft of the performers shone through with every note, providing the audience a rare glimpse into the psyche of these dedicated and passionate artists.
An Emotive Evening of Grace and Gratitude
The undeniable skill and mastery of both McAllister and Ames were on display throughout the night. As they collaborated and brought life to the compositions, their love for music and its stirring potential was evident.
Despite their expansive achievements and incredible talent, both artists remained humble and shared their thanks with everyone that had gathered. A sense of gratitude was palpable in the auditorium; gratitude for the opportunity to perform, gratitude for the time and effort put into organizing the event, and gratitude for all those in the audience who were there to share in the magic of the evening.
“It’s wonderful to be here with you,” said McAllister, echoing the sentiment in the room.
As a treat for eager fans, McAllister also hinted at a future release, “Project Encore, Vol. 2”, currently in production, thus promising many more magical evenings of music in the time to come.
The beautiful blend of sounds from the evening’s performances remains available for listeners to relive or experience for the first time through “Project Encore, Vol. 1”, found on Spotify and Apple Music.
As the evening came to a close, it was clear to all in attendance that they had been part of a truly special musical journey. McAllister and Ames, with their soul-stirring performances, left a lasting echo in the Nutt Auditorium; one that will continue to resonate well after the last note faded into the night.
