Pianist Danny Holt will perform several selections and discuss some of the unique challenges of interpreting contemporary classical music that is influenced by jazz, rock, and pop. Holt delights in delving deeply into works by living composers that straddle the worlds of improvisation and composition, and that transcend straightforward genre categorizations. Through performance, analysis, and discussion, he will share how his work in this area exposes a fascinating tension between the old and the new – and the satisfying and beautiful things that can result from a synthesis of the two! More of an informal show-and-tell / Q&A than a traditional concert, Holt's presentation encourages audience members to ask questions and contribute to the conversation.

Holt will return to Eastport Arts Center in July to perform his “Not Strictly Classical” program in its entirety.