Composer Forum: Miguel Zenón on Golden City

Friday, March 14, 2025 | 12:30pm
Lewis Music Library (14E-109)
Reception to Follow

Join Grammy Award-winning alto saxophonist, composer, and MIT faculty Miguel Zenón for a discussion on Golden City—his sweeping extended composition for large ensemble that traces San Francisco’s demographic and political evolution from pre-colonial times to today’s tech-dominated era. Originally commissioned by SFJAZZ and the Hewlett Foundation, Golden City has been praised by All About Jazz as "a triumph… Miguel Zenón at his creative peak. A riveting listening experience."

Blending rigorous research with bold musical storytelling, Golden City is scheduled for its Massachusetts premiere in MIT’s new Thomas Tull Concert Hall. In this pre-concert talk, Zenón will share insights into his compositional process, the historical narratives behind the music, and how complex social histories translate into sound. Drawing from extensive historical research and interviews, Zenón illuminates California’s past—from its indigenous communities and Mexican period to the Gold Rush and waves of Asian migration—through a dynamic and deeply personal musical lens. Golden City is a showcase of Zenón’s masterful saxophone work alongside a formidable trombone-centric horn section, guitar, piano, bass, and percussion.

More information: https://artfinity.mit.edu/event/golden-city

Host or Publisher MIT Music and Theater Arts