Renowned Violinist Regina Carter to Speak at UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music Graduation, Set for June 11
Regina Carter Set to Inspire at UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music Commencement
Renowned American jazz violinist, Regina Carter, is set to deliver a keynote address at the 2021 commencement celebration of The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. The virtual event, scheduled for June 11 at 4 p.m. PDT, will also feature performances by students and student remarks.
Carter, a GRAMMY-nominated musician, is known for her unique sound that transcends genres and cultures. Her musical style encompasses jazz, R&B, Latin, classical, blues, and more, making her a trailblazer in the music industry.
Associate Dean for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, Arturo O'Farrill, described Carter as the quintessential musician of the future, defining herself not by genres but by the continuum of all that connects music. Eileen Strempel, the inaugural dean of The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, expressed honor over Carter's participation in the celebration.
Carter's influence extends beyond her music. She has opened doors for female jazz musicians with her work, becoming an influential figure and a source of inspiration for many. Her contributions to the jazz world have helped elevate the role of women, particularly female instrumentalists, fostering greater representation.
Carter's accolades include winning major awards such as the Oasis Awards for Best Group in 2001 and 2002. She has also received the MacArthur "genius" and Doris Duke Artist Awards. In 2018, she was named artistic director of the New Jersey Performing Arts All-Female Jazz Residency.
Carter's work has been showcased at numerous jazz festivals and she has made guest appearances on albums. One such collaboration was with Global Jazz Studies Professor, Arturo O'Farrill, on the album "Fandango at the Wall: A Soundtrack for the United States, Mexico and Beyond."
The class of 2021 at The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music comprises of 130 graduates from the departments of ethnomusicology, global jazz studies, music, music industry, and musicology. Carter's keynote address is expected to empower and inspire these students as they continue their studies and embark upon their careers. Moreover, her emphasis on diversity is expected to invite all to the table regardless of race, gender, preference, ethnicity, or aesthetic.
As Carter prepares to address the graduating class, her uplifting words are set to resonate with the students, reflecting her commitment to promoting diversity and fostering a more inclusive music industry.
Carter's keynote address at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music Commencement will not only inspire the class of 2021, but also encourage them to pursue education-and-self-development beyond their studies. As a trailblazer in the music industry, her emphasis on diversity and inclusion in her music and advocacy work aligns with the entertainment industry's continuous evolution, where music transcends genres and cultures.
