Power and grace are two terms that best exemplify composer Jamie Begian's music. The breadth demonstrated by these words directly correspond to the wide range of Mr. Begian's musical palette. While Mr. Begian considers himself a jazz composer, his music reflects a far-reaching approach that knows no stylistic boundaries -- his work tells a story, both taken as a whole and as seen in the development of each individual composition. Mr. Begian's music is a unique and original expression of modern jazz.

Mr. Begian started his career in New York City as a jazz guitarist and continues to perform with his own trio. His interest in composing was fueled by his enrollment in the prestigious BMI Jazz Composers Workshop in 1993. In 1996 he was first featured on the workshop's annual concert with his piece "Trance" and has been on each concert since that time. In 2001 his composition Fuzzy Math was named composition of the year by the workshop and was awarded the prestigious Charlie Parker Prize.

Mr. Begian formed The Jamie Begian Big Band in 1998 and debuted at El Taller LatinoAmericano February 18, 1999. Through its many performances since then, at such notable New York City venues as The Knitting Factory and The Cutting Room, it has come to be recognized by fans and critics alike as one of the most original big bands active on the New York scene. With the coming release of the band's first CD TRANCE, The Jamie Begian Big Band will continue to prove itself as an outstanding and creative ensemble.

The exact date of this concert is not known, but it occurred in the marked year around this time.