Experiences is the buzzword in lifestyle these days in lifestyle and travel. Research has proven that they’re what all age groups are looking for in this decade where everything is about interactivity and immersion. Besides travel, arguably the area where this is truest is in the culinary world where one of the hottest trends is dining plus other sensory experiences – music, art, aromatherapy. Now we’re starting to have some of these options in Miami with the notable additions of Musimelange which combines chamber music, gastronomy and a wine tasting all in the living room of an art gallery in the M building in Wynwood and Pairings at Ted’s at Young Arts.
Musimelange was started by French violinist Ann Chicheportiche who wanted to recreate the traiditon of the Belle Epoque where public figures, artists, writers and musicians were introduced to their friends in hopes of inspiring ideas and creativity. Each month the musical group changes as does the restaurant providing the food. Ann creates a customized chamber music concert for every soloist or ensemble. The evening we went it was a talented jazz group with food catered by Riviera Focacceria Italiana and wines by French firm Barton & Guestier. What they call Act I was a wine reception in the garden followed by light bites, then the concert (Act 2) and dessert (Act 3). We went with some friends and had a delightful time (though don’t expect to have dinner). The crowd looked like the creative set, the kind you’d see who live in Wynwood or the East Village of New York.
The next evening event is April 18 at 7:30, a trumpet concert featuring Mary Bowden and a string quartet with the music of McMillan, Debussy and Mozart and food catered by GK Bistronomie. The cost is $55 when buying in advance and $65 at the door. (FYI the evening we went they didn’t sell out so at the last minute they offered admission at half price.)
Musimelange is a welcome change of pace, a new experience worth trying. They also offer Musimini, interactive concerts for children.
And while on the topic of eating and entertainment, a good friend put me on to another option I haven’t been to but want to go – Pairings at Ted’s at Young Arts. A contemporary take on the traditional dinner and a show format, supper club-inspired evenings are set atop the YoungArts Tower. There are two performances a month, on Friday and Saturday nights, each with a different theme. Here’s the lineup:
O, Miami | Poetry
Friday, April 29 | Reserve tickets
Saturday, April 30 | Reserve tickets
Aiming for every single person in Miami-Dade County to encounter a poem during the month of April, O, Miami’s lyrical interventions have included performances by Anne Carson, Raúl Zurita, Patti Smith, Richard Blanco, Thurston Moore, and many others. O, Miami will host an array of powerful spoken word artists and poets alongside some of YoungArts’ noted literary arts alumni.
Alumni Elena & Samora Pinderhughes | Jazz
Friday, May 20 | Reserve tickets
Saturday, May 21 | Reserve tickets
The Guardian calls Elena Pinderhughes (2013 Winner in Jazz), a 19-year old Flutist hailing from the Bay Area, California, “The most exciting jazz flautist to have emerged in years.” Elena next to her pianist/composer brother Samora (2009 Winner in Piano), a recent graduate of Julliard, will perform together, showcasing their wide arrayed musical talents while expressing issues of challenging questions such as racism, social justice and identity.
Alumnus Doug Blush presenting 20 Feet from Stardom | Cinematic Arts
Friday, June 24 | Reserve tickets
Saturday, June 25 | Reserve tickets
Award-winning filmmaker Doug Blush (1984 Winner in Cinematic Arts) presents “20 Feet from Stardom,” winner of the 2013 Academy Award® for Best Documentary that follows the careers of backup singers living in a world that lies just beyond the spotlight. Featured in this documentary is 2002 YoungArts Winner in Voice, Judith Hill.
You can choose a prix fixe dinner package with a three course menu at $95 per person (beverage, tax and tip not included) with priority seating and table service. There’s also general admission priced at $35 per person with a $25 food and beverage minimum including small plates, wine and spirits available for purchase.
For more information, contact Katie Breuil at kbreuil@youngarts.org.