From the concert halls of Europe, “With a standing ovation from the inspired audience…a smashing success” --NORDWEST ZEITUNG, to the musical stages here at home, “brilliant, shining, expressive, and confident”-- PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER, Carolyn Black-Sotir dazzles audiences with her unique theatrical concerts celebrating the American Music Theatre Song.
About the Artist
As a leading ambassador of the American theatre song, Dr. Carolyn Black-Sotir has written and performed a repertoire of 13 original theatrical concerts. Programs include tributes to the Gershwins, Sondheim, Weill, Rodgers & Hart & Hammerstein, Porter, Bernstein, Kern, Arlen, Berlin, as well as performances focusing on the music of specific historical events or eras, such as the American Civil War and The Gilded Age. Abandoning the conventions of the predictable concert format, Carolyn combines music, dramatic narrative, and stunning images to create a provocative and multi-dimensional performance experience. She has interviewed such notables as Broadway’s Stephen Sondheim, Rick Elice, Lonny Price, and Roger Rees and has conducted numerous master classes and lectures on the American theatre song for college and arts organizations. Carolyn’s programs are entertaining and enlightening, comprising meticulous research, theatrical production elements, and excellent musical interpretation. These engaging presentations connect us to our past by lending an insightful look into our musical heritage, thus creating a deeper understanding of who we are and where we come from. "Carolyn Black-Sotir is a wonderful singer, with beautiful tone, and excellent diction, and her portrayal is spontaneous and superbly characterized.”-- Baltimore Sun.Carolyn Black-Sotir, DMA website Carolyn Black-Sotir Website
Artist's Statement
A few words from artist Carolyn Black-Sotir: For me, it all began when I created my first original stage work: Just a Song at Twilight—an enlightening and entertaining look at turn-of-the-century America and its music. Enthusiastically received and also broadcast on public television, this program inspired me to develop more theatrical concerts focusing on the American theatre song. Along with my ensemble, AMTA, (an eclectic mix of music theatre and jazz artists,) I remain committed to keeping this repertoire engaging and relevant today and for future generations. My theatrical concerts explore various musical styles, at times transforming yesterday’s music theatre classics with a new and refreshing spin--from pop, to Latin, to jazz, to Broadway, and everything in between. In short, my programs celebrate our country’s rich and colorful musical landscape. The music theatre song’s significance goes beyond its beautiful melodies and clever lyrics; it is an integral part of our heritage; it offers us a means of connecting with our past while lending perspective and understanding to the present. This repertoire reflects our nation’s changing times—illustrating our country’s social, political, and economic histories. Steeped in the music and words of the American people, it gives voice to our diverse national community–immigrant, European, Jewish, African-American. In a time when our country is so deeply divided, these programs serve as a reminder of the power and beauty created through the acceptance and combination of diverse ideas and cultures. Conceived with touring in mind, each of the 13 theatrical concerts is designed to adapt to almost any venue--from cabaret room to symphony hall and range from a simple duo (Carolyn and pianist,) to AMTA guest vocalists, to a trio/quartet, and even a symphony pops orchestra!Featured Work
Videos
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The SONDHEIM Woman
See more information about The SONDHEIM WomanDetails: 4:44 -
RICHARD RODGERS and His Sounds of Music
See more information about RICHARD RODGERS and His Sounds of MusicCarolyn Black-Sotir and members of AMTA, American Music Theatre artists perform RICHARD RODGERS AND HIS SOUNDS OF MUSIC, a musical and theatrical retrospective of Richard Rodgers’ life and works. The show presents an overview of the Richard Rodgers musical canon, offering classic as well as new interpretations of his theatre songs. A dramatic narrative provides the story behind the music and delves into Rodgers’ collaborations with Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein.Details: 4:30 -
By George! By Ira! BY GERSHWIN!
See more information about By George! By Ira! BY GERSHWIN!Celebrate the genius of George Gershwin! With the classic Rhapsody in Blue, rhythmic ragtimes, sophisticated melodies, brother Ira’s clever lyrics, and masterpiece Porgy and Bess, GERSHWIN-BY GEORGE! captures the Gershwin spirit--vibrant, brash, bold, and uniquely American. A dramatic narrative and spectacular visual images tell the compelling story of Gershwin’s rise to fame: his childhood as the son of poor Jewish immigrant parents, his early years on Tin Pan Alley spent in the smoky speakeasies of Harlem, his successes on Broadway, and his history-making concert performances. This all-Gershwin extravaganza written and performed by Carolyn Black-Sotir features an eclectic and stellar ensemble of classical and jazz musicians.Details: 4:33 -
Just a Song at Twilight
See more information about Just a Song at TwilightAn intimate theatre piece presented in the manner of the time, in the costume of the period, and in the context of the age, JUST A SONG AT TWILIGHT traces the life of a Victorian woman and the era which affected her.Details: 7:30
Booking
CONTACT INFO:
Carolyn Black-Sotir
443.629.5037
cblacksotir@gmail.com
Carolyn Black-Sotir serves as booking, road, and production managers. She negotiates all contracts including tech riders, arranges travel and lodging accommodations, and is the contact person for the presenter and technical director. Carolyn provides audio and lighting oversight during pre-show lighting and sound checks. She oversees delivery of music arrangements used in collaborative performances with local music ensembles.
Each program has a basic fee based on number of artists, rehearsals, and performances. Travel, lodging, and food costs are negotiated separately with each presenter and are covered typically by the presenter.
COMMUNITY, RESIDENCY, AND/OR EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
In conjunction with their live concerts, Carolyn & AMTA offer master classes, demonstration lectures, workshops, student concerts, and collaborative performance opportunities to enrich the concert experience:
-MASTERCLASSES: High school and university musicians perform selections from the American Songbook as Carolyn & Tim McReynolds coach students on their interpretation and stage presence while discussing the repertoire's historical and social context.
-LECTURE DEMONSTRATIONS: Geared to senior audiences, Carolyn presents repertoire not explored in the main concert, along with interesting anecdotal information, vintage recordings, an accompanying slide presentation, and musical insights. A Q&A concludes the presentation.
-COLLABORATIVE PERFORMANCES: Carolyn & AMTA'S educational outreach extends to the live performance as well. A local high school band and/or chorus collaborates with Carolyn & Company in two of their nine program offerings. Special band and choral arrangements have been tailored to the abilities of high school musicians. Carolyn visits the school and works with the students to prepare them for the live concert. These concerts offer a unique opportunity for students to showcase their talents, learn from and work with professional musicians, and experience their musical heritage first-hand.
Stage Dimensions: flexible
Stage Set: Tuned grand piano, 2 (two) backless stools 36", one black Manhasset-type music stand
Audio Support Equipment: Professional quality sound system with 3 (three) microphones and monitor
Visual Support Equipment: If available, but not essential: LCD projector and screen or cyc no smaller than 10’ X 12’ on which to project images
Lighting: Standard stage lighting; specials and washes if available
There are no travel restrictions as Carolyn is interested in performing in every Maryland county!