Laura Karpman: A Live Performance of the Score from American Fiction with Elena Pinderhughes, Keyon Harrold and Erika Alexander

American Fiction Live is a unique, multimedia format encompassing the intersection of filmmaking, acting, storytelling, film scoring, live performance, and the best in jazz—all brought together for what promises to be a scintillating and eye-opening evening. Oscar-nominated composer Laura Karpman, acclaimed flutist and vocalist Elena Pinderhughes, and actors John Ortiz and Erika Alexander come together with a band of jazz's most accomplished musicians to illuminate the process of creating a jazz score for one of the 21st century's most iconic films. About the Film American Fiction emerged as one of 2023's most celebrated works, winning the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay and earning widespread critical acclaim. Writer-director Cord Jefferson's sharp, satirical adaptation of Percival Everett's novel Erasure offers a brilliant commentary on race, identity, and the commodification of Black stories in the publishing industry. The film follows Thelonious "Monk" Ellison, a frustrated novelist whose serious literary work is consistently overlooked. When he writes a satirical parody of stereotypical "Black" literature under a pseudonym, it becomes a runaway success—forcing him to confront uncomfortable truths about art, authenticity, and what audiences expect from Black creators. About the Music Laura Karpman's jazz-infused score became an integral part of the film's identity, perfectly capturing its sophisticated wit and emotional depth. The music breathes life into Monk's internal world while underscoring the film's sharp cultural commentary. Experiencing this score performed live, while exploring the creative collaboration between composer, musicians, and actors, offers a rare window into the artistry behind contemporary cinema. This evening promises an unforgettable fusion of film, performance, and conversation—a celebration of artistic excellence and the power of jazz to tell complex, modern stories.

Band: Elena Pinderhughes - Flute Meredith Ezinma - violin Keyon Harrold - trumpet Javier Santiago - piano Jonathan Pinson - drums Jermaine Paul - bass