Kristen Strom Sextet

What makes music “swing?” Can you hear two versions of the same song- one swings and another doesn’t? Is it the tempo, the instruments- or is it in the composition itself? 

A theoretical physicist in Germany has spent decades studying synchronization and the way that neurons in our brains relate to one another. He’s also an amateur jazz saxophonist, and he believes that he has come close to identifying the physics of swing. 

But is that it? Is it really a mathematical formula and precise alignment of tiny differences in timing that make one tune swing and another not? Or is the answer, as Christian McBride simply said, “Swing is a feel.” 

Join us for this fascinating performance and class and see what you think. Kris Strom is one of the Bay Area’s most sought-after saxophonists and along with her amazing ensemble, they will guide you on a musical journey from the earliest roots of swing, through Ellington and Basie, to the bebop world of Charlie Parker, to the modern era of young lions influenced by hip-hop, neo soul, and new jack swing.

You’ll hear some great music, have an opportunity for some engaging Q&A with the musicians and maybe- just maybe- come away understanding for yourself the answer to the question: “Yes, it’s jazz… but does it swing?”