Join us December 2nd for an intimate listening experience with Mexican breakout star HUMBE, who will share the stories behind the making of his ambitious new album 'DUEÑO DEL CIELO' in advance of its release, in a talk led by journalist E.R. Pulgar. This series celebrates the craft behind the voices and makers shaping culture today, and we can't wait to take a deeper look into this artists' groundbreaking work.

Join us for a very special listening party, celebrating the release of Meredith Monk’s newest album, 'Cellular Songs,' on ECM Records. Performed by the women of the acclaimed Meredith Monk & Vocal Ensemble (Monk, Ellen Fisher, Katie Geissinger, Joanna Lynn-Jacobs and Allison Sniffin) and percussionist, John Hollenbeck, 'Cellular Songs' features some of Monk’s most adventurous and daring writing for the voice, paired with violin, piano, body percussion and keyboard.

BlackBox Ensemble performs the U.S. premiere of PIPA BOY: Three Scenes from the Post-Diaspora by Baldwin Giang, a multimedia work for ensemble and pipa player exploring global identity and the conditions of belonging and non-belonging. The video part features collaborations with three international filmmakers. The program also includes work by Anthony Cheung, Misato Mochizuki, and Giang's song cycle butterfly, posthumously.

After years of anticipation, Mona Miari takes the stage for a spellbinding evening celebrating her comeback with her debut album and the premiere of her newest musical project. Rooted in the sounds of Arabic heritage and carried by a voice that transcends borders, Mona’s music honors the home we carry within us — the questions, the dreams, and the life that shape who we are. This concert unfolds as a journey through memory and imagination, where every note becomes both a remembrance and a revelation. Joined by exceptional artists and dear friends, each bringing their own light to an evening of profound connection and effortless artistry. Together, they create a space where belonging feels both intimate and boundless — where tradition meets innovation, and music becomes a shared breath. An experience years in the making, this performance marks a defining chapter in Mona’s creative evolution — one that promises to linger long after the final note.

On December 7, 1985—exactly 40 years ago—the BRC burst into culture with our first-ever party (“Drop The Bomb” at Linda Goode Bryant’s JAM Gallery). Now, on this monumental anniversary, we’re pulling out even more stops… To celebrate our decades-strong community, we’re inviting some of our favorite musicians, artists, and deep-cut DJs to take to the stage and deliver the genre-expansive performances we’ve been championing since our founding. Doubling as a record release party for the 5th volume of our “Rock ‘n’ Roll Reparations” compilation series, audience members will not only be the first to hear the new record, they’ll be able to see some of the most dynamic bands play those songs live.

A living legend of the guitar, Al Di Meola has spent five decades redefining what’s possible on six strings. From his groundbreaking work with Return to Forever to collaborations with John McLaughlin and Paco de Lucía, Di Meola’s artistry bridges jazz, world music, and contemporary fusion with unmatched technical mastery and lyrical depth. His latest release, TWENTYFOUR, continues a legacy of innovation—an expansive journey through intricate rhythms, global influences, and visionary composition. Whether on acoustic or electric, Di Meola’s performances are immersive experiences, blending virtuosity and emotion in equal measure. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness one of the most influential guitarists of all time in an intimate setting at National Sawdust.