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Press Releases
Blue Griffin Recording releases Dancing in a Still Life
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BLUE GRIFFIN RECORDING RELEASES DANCING IN A STILL LIFE
A COLLECTION OF DUOS FOR BASS CLARINET
CELEBRATING FRIENDSHIP, MOVEMENT, AND MUSICAL
COLOR
LANSING, MI - On August 15, 2025, Blue Griffin Recording releases Dancing
in a Still Life [BGR699], the latest album from twice GRAMMY®-nominated
clarinetist/bass clarinetist Tasha Warren, joined by an extraordinary lineup of
collaborators: Amir Farid (piano), Guy Yehuda (clarinet), Dave Eggar (cello),
Phil Faconti (guitar), and legendary Paquito D’Rivera (clarinet). Recorded at
Blue Griffin’s studio The Ballroom in Lansing, MI, and at the Unity Center of
Pittsburgh, this 17-track album invites listeners into a vibrant world of dances,
each refracted through the unique textures of bass clarinet in duo settings. Warren describes the album as “a
celebration of friendship and collaboration,” drawing inspiration from a life lived in constant interplay between artistic
momentum and situational inertia. “The name of the album stems from the contradictions I have personally felt as a
mother, wife, and woman musician in a world swirling with movement… seemingly standing in place while moving
forward with richness, inspiration, gratitude, and love.”
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Patrick Harlin - Dance Suite for Bass Clarinet and Piano: Originally written for bassoon, this virtuosic
reimagining explores drama and sweeping range with pianist Amir Farid.
- Astor Piazzolla - Histoire du Tango: Arranged by Guy Yehuda for bass clarinet and clarinet, moving from
lively Buenos Aires bordellos to modern-day concert halls.
- Neal Endicott - Riding to School with Samuel Beckett: Four movements inspired by the legendary
playwright’s wit and philosophical musings, in duo with cellist Dave Eggar.
- Daniel Akiva - Dance Preludes: A five-movement suite dedicated to Warren, blending ritual,
Mediterranean melodies, and spiritual reflection with guitarist Phil Faconti.
- Paquito D’Rivera - Contradanza: A joyful, impromptu performance with D’Rivera himself, capturing the warmth
and humor of their friendship.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Tasha Warren has premiered over 100 works worldwide and recorded for major labels. A Selmer-Paris Concert
Artist, she currently serves as Assistant Professor of Chamber Music at Michigan State University and is an active
performer with ensembles including the American Modern Ensemble, Lansing Symphony, and Jackson Symphony
Orchestra. Her collaborative spirit and advocacy for new music have led to performances and teaching engagements
across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Israel.
ABOUT THE GUEST ARTISTS
- Amir Farid - Award-winning pianist and Juilliard staff artist.
- Guy Yehuda - Internationally acclaimed clarinetist and MSU professor.
- Dave Eggar - Four-time GRAMMY® nominee, celebrated for his versatility from Carnegie Hall to
collaborations with Paul Simon and Norah Jones.
- Phil Faconti - Two-time GRAMMY®-nominated guitarist and sought-after producer.- Paquito D’Rivera - Winner of 16 GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY® Awards, a towering figure in jazz and
classical music.
ALBUM DETAILS
Label: Blue Griffin Recording
Catalog #: BGR699
Total Time: 1:11:02
Release Date: August 15, 2025
Producer/Engineer: Sergei Kvitko
Recorded at: The Ballroom, Lansing MI & Unity Center of Pittsburgh
Listen to the album here: https://orcd.co/or8daj7
For more information, interviews, or review copies, please contact:
Ari Gayer: ari.gayer@bluegriffin.com
Website: www.bluegriffin.com
