Tag Archives: Jake Landau

Roundup: News12, Field Lights, Levitt Pavilion, Playhouse …

Posted on July 15, 2026 | 4 comments

News12 Connecticut has made another round of layoffs.

And this one includes some very familiar, popular and longtime faces.

Among the 11 people let go from the editorial team, effective next month: on-air journalists Becky Suran and Mark Sudol.

Others receiving pink slips including photographers, executive producers and editorial managers.

Seven journalist and photographers remain in the Norwalk studio. Reporters will now be required to shoot their own stories.

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Discussion of lights on Wakeman and PJ Romano Fields continues at Monday’s Planning & Zoning Commission meeting (July 20, 6 p.m., Zoom).

The clock re-set after Parks & Recreation Department director Erik Barbieri resubmitted the application, after questions and comments during previous P&Z meetings.

Click here, then scroll down to 70 North Avenue and 170 Riverside Avenue for application materials, public comments and more.

Wakeman Field, one site of proposed lights.

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The registrars of voters begin memory card and tabulator testing on Tuesday (July 21, 9:30 a.m., Town Hall Room 212D).

The public is welcome to observe, through the testing is complete.

Meanwhile, there’s an “enrollment session” on Friday, July 24 (5 to 7 p.m., Town Hall, Room 107) to register voters before the August 11 primary elections.

Voters can also enroll any time at the registrar of voters’ office any time during normal business hours.

A tabulator (foreground) at the Westport Library polling place. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Singer-songwriter MT Jones brings his soulful vibe to the Levitt Pavilion this Sunday (7 p.m.; free).

Before his appearance, he chatted with Weston Today’s Jaclyn Jeffrey. They spoke about his hit album “Joy,” his journey from young musician to session player, then on to a solo career writing original songs, his creative process, and the legendary robust Liverpool music scene.

He also performed a track from “Joy.” Click here, for the story and link.

MT Jones

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The curtain rose last night on legendary detective Hercule Poirot, as he investigates “Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.” The show runs through August 1, at Westport Country Playhouse.

Called “the greatest whodunit ever written,” the novel cemented Christie’s reputation as the “Queen of Crime.” Click here for tickets, and more information.

A free Symposium is set for this Sunday (July 19), following the 3 p.m. performance.

“Christie at 100…Still Going Strong” will discuss why her mysteries continue to sell 4 million copies a year. Guest speakers include author and co-founder of the Connecticut Chapter of Sisters in Crime Elise Hart Kipness, and mystery writer and CrimeConn festival founder Chris Knopf.

Kelle Ruden — leader of The Usual Suspects, a long-running mystery book discussion group at rhe Westport Library — will moderate.

Anthony Cochrane as Hercule Poirot in “Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.” (Photo/Mark Smith)

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Speaking of theater: There are 2 Westport connections to “Rosie,” the “riveting” new musical with a one-night-only presentation at Greenwich House Theater (August 4, 7 p.m.).

The music and lyrics for the show — about the girl in the bandana behind the iconic World War II poster, as she reconciles her feminism with the diverse and complex world — were written by 2013 Staples High School graduate Jake Landau.

Fellow Staples alum Lauren Weinberger is the developmental producer.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

Jake Landau

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Silvermine Arts Center’s current exhibit, “A Place for Artists,” traces the history of the 119-year-old galleries, studios and teaching center.

Staples High School Class of 1972 graduate Leslie Alexander is in the show. She’s a member of the Silvermine Guild

So was her mother, Diane Davenport Alexander. And her grandfather, Edmond Greek Davenport.

In keeping with the them, Leslie’s piece is next to her mom and grandpa’s works. (Hat tip: Liz Milwe)

Leslie Alexander, with her work.

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Back we go to the insect and flower worlds, for today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature:

(Photo/Nancy Diamond)

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And finally … happy 80th birthday, Linda Ronstadt!

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Candlelight Shines

Posted on December 17, 2023 | 3 comments

The 83rd annual Candlelight Concert is -= as always — a treasure.

The Staples High School Music Department’s gift to the town debuted Friday night. It continued with 2 more performances, yesterday afternoon and evening.

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

This year’s production included the world premiere of “I Found the Light,” a commissioned work by 2013 graduates Jake Landau and Emily Garber. The composers took well-deserved bows from the audience.

“I Found the Light” composers Emily Garber and Jake Landau.

Hundreds of orchestra, band and choral members participated. Bravo to directors Jeri Brima, Philip Giampietro, Carrie Mascaro, Lauren Pine and Caitlin Serpliss for their wonderful work!

One view of the “Sing We Noel” processional … (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

… and another. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The Symphonic Orchestra, during the “Sing We Noel” processional. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Brassy “La Morisque.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Orchestral concentration. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Among the small ensembles: The Jazz Combo played “O Hanukkah.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Rudolph — the famous reindeer — joined the production number. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Alumni of all ages headed to the stage for the “Hallelujah Chorus.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

The combined symphonic orchestra and choral ensembles — plus alumni — at Friday’s “Hallelujah Chorus.” As is traditional, the audience stands. (Photo/Mark Potts)

View from the risers, before Saturday’s “Hallelujah Chorus.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Lauren Pine made her debut as Staples choral director. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Phil Giampietro, after conducting “I Found the Light.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

 

 

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“I Found The Light”: Commissioned Piece Premiers At Candlelight

Posted on December 13, 2023 | 9 comments

The Candlelight Concert is one of Westport’s most beloved traditions.

From the haunting “Sing We Noel” processional to the majestic “Hallelujah Chorus” — with choirs, orchestras, bands and a special production number in between — the Staples High School Music Department’s gift to the town is a centerpiece of the holiday season.

It’s hard to imagine anything more special. But this weekend’s 83rd annual concert promises an astonishing addition.

Two Class of 2013 graduates — composer Jake Landau and poet Emily Garber — have collaborated on a piece commissioned solely for this year’s Candlelight.

“I Found the Light” is the Music Department’s first commissioned work in 40 years. The world premiere marks a new chapter in the school’s rich musical heritage.

A video that will play before each concert this weekend offers background into the artistic process, from the composer, the librettist, and Staples’ orchestra, band and choral directors.

The video provides an intimate look into the creative process and the significant impact this commission has had on students and faculty. It underscores the vital role of new art and contemporary artists in our world, and shows how Staples students have a unique chance to contribute to the creation of new music.

The story behind the commission is so compelling, and the video so insightful, that it deserves the widest possible audience.

So here it is. Click below or — if your browser does not support embedding — click here.

 

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Candlelight Concert Tickets Available December 1

Posted on November 20, 2023 | Comments Off on Candlelight Concert Tickets Available December 1

For 83 years, the Candlelight Concert has been the Staples High School music department’s gift to the town.

With its “Sing We Noel” processional, “Hallelujah Chorus” finale, and wondrous performances by the choirs, orchestras and bands, Candlelight is timeless.

But there is always something new, too.

This year, it’s the world premiere of a specially commissioned piece.

“I Found the Light” is a collaborative creation by a pair of Class of 2000 graduates: composer Jake Landau and poet Emily Garber. Afterward, it will be shared worldwide.

That premiere — and the rest of the much-anticipated concert, including Vaughan Williams’ “Greensleeves Fantasia,” “Ose Shalom” by John Leavitt, and Leroy Anderson’s classic “A Christmas Festival” — is Friday, December 15 (8 p.m.) and Saturday, December 16 (3 and 8 p.m.).

Tickets will be available to the public at 9 a.m. on Friday, December 1 (online at www.staplesmusic.org. There is a maximum of 4 tickets per order.

There is no charge for Candlelight tickets. However, donations to support the music program are graciously accepted.

Veteran Candlelight-goers know: Tickets sell out fast. Mark your calendar now for 9 a.m., December 1.

 This year’s Candlelight poster was designed by Staples art and music student Shivali Kanthan.

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Roundup: Staples Lacrosse: State Champs! …

Posted on June 12, 2023 | Comments Off on Roundup: Staples Lacrosse: State Champs! …

First there was Wilton. Then Darien.

Now there’s a new powerhouse in Connecticut boys lacrosse: Staples.

The Wreckers won their 2nd straight state championship — and 2nd ever — yesterday. Seeded #2 in the “L” (large schools) division, they dominated #1-ranked Fairfield Prep en route to a 13-6 victory.

The score was 4-2 at halftime. The blue-and-whites never looked back.

Goals and/or assists came from Tyler Clark, Sam Eigen, Ben Burmeister, Leo Sequenzia, Gavin Rothenberg, Adam Udell, Tristan Schaefer, Michael Nealon and Dixon Scherer. Josh Marcus was a rock in goal.

Two days earlier, in a much closer contest, Staples edged #3 Darien, 9-8.

Congratulations to coach Will Koshansky, and the entire team, on a hard-earned, well-deserved, and fantastic accomplishment!

(Photos/Jada Mirabelle for CIAC Sports)

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A 13% cut in Metro-North service — and 4% fare increase — are coming down the tracks this fall.

What can be done?

Nothing.

That’s the opinion of Jim Cameron, CT Mirror’s transportation columnist.

Click here to read today’s full column. And get ready to gnash your teeth.

Jim Cameron describes what’s on track for local trains. (Photo/Molly Alger)

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Beechwood has been sold.

The storied Weston Road property owned by Frederic Chiu and Jeanine Esposito changes hands later this month.

Before then, the couple’s Beechwood Arts & Immersion — named for the enormous copper beech tree that has shaded the home for 2 centuries — is holding an online auction. It closes this Wednesday (June 14, 7:30 p.m.). Click here for the link. All proceeds go to The Hive, Chiu and Esposito’s next collaborative project.

On Thursday, June 22 (3 to 7 p.m.), there is a “Take and Make” event. It is
“Beechwood’s version of a tag sale.” Go to Beechwood, have refreshments, visit the tree, share a memory of your time there, take some treasures, and make a donation for The Hive.

Among the items: women’s clothing, accessories and jewelry; rare, unusual and fun books; CDs and LPs; home and yard items, and more.

Beechwood House, and its towering copper beech tree.

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Remember this big, ugly, unneeded monstrosity from last summer?

(Photo/Matt Murray)

It’s gone this year.

The view of the plantings at the Compo Beach entrance is now much more soothing.

But wait! How will anyone know how many spaces are available in each lot?!

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Village Pediatrics had 4 interns this spring. Among their tasks: create a new “story walk” outside the office.

The new exhibit — “The Emotions Book” — features a cute elephant who learns to deal with big emotions. The public is invited to wander through the walkway, at 323 Riverside Avenue.

Cooper DeGirolomo of Hamden Hall Country Day School was one of the interns. He says: “The opportunity to learn from such a fantastic group of doctors and nurses has been inspiring, and reinvigorated my interest in pursuing a career in medicine.”

He shadowed physicians during well and sick visits. He learned about diseases and conditions, treatment plans, and medications.

The interns also read books about health, and discussed them with physicians.

Kayla Teplitz, 5, enjoys the Village Pediatrics story walk. She is working on her pre-reading skills, preparing for Coleytown Elementary School kindergarten this fall.

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“Riders to the Sea” was performed this past weekend at the Brooklyn Art Haus.

But theater-goers got a healthy dose of Westport.

Staples High School 2013 graduates (and former Players actors and/or musicians) Phoebe Corde, Jake Landau and Michelle Pauker had prominent roles.

Corde and Landau — part of a group called Off Brand Opera — adapted the opera into a musical. Landau also served as musical director, while Pauker was in the cast. Jake and Phoebe are board members of Off Brand Opera, which produces exciting cross-genre collaborations.

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Speaking of theater: “Days of Wine and Roses” — the new off-Broadway show starring Westport’s Kelli O’Hara — earned a rave review in the Washington Post.

“Her exceptional coloratura proves irresistible for a Guettel-mixed cocktail of ecstasy and pain,” writes Peter Marks.

“At a time when the American musical seems ever more pumped up on pop, what a pleasure it is to encounter a palette of new show tunes delving deeply into character, that favor sweeping emotionality over Spotify familiarity.”

Click here for the full review. (Hat tip: Fred Cantor)

Brian d’Arcy James and Kelli O’Hara in Atlantic Theater Company’s world premiere for the musical version of “Days of Wine and Roses.” (Photo/Ahron R. Foster for the Washington Post)

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A rose is a rose … is a “Westport … Naturally” photo.

Today’s beautiful image was taken by Tammy Barry, on Harbor Road.

(Photo/Tammy Barry)

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And finally … in honor of today’s gorgeous nature shot (above):

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Jake Landau: The Next Leonard Bernstein?

Posted on June 2, 2012 | 2 comments

After you’ve composed a piece for the New York Philharmonic, what’s left in life?

How about writing writing choral music for the Conservative Synagogue?

That’s Jake Landau’s latest feat.

Of course, much more lies ahead. Jake is only a Staples High School junior.

Jake Landau

A multi-talented junior, that’s for sure. A student at the Juilliard School pre-college program, a member of the New York Youth Symphony and a national PTA “Reflections” award winner, he’s been playing piano — and composing — almost all his young life.

Classical music is his favorite. But Jake is equally comfortable writing opera, musical theater, soundtracks — and now, a piece for his synagogue.

His work will be performed tomorrow (Sunday, June 3, 7 p.m.) as part of the “On a Chai Note: A Musical Celebration of Israel” concert. Accompanying Jake on piano are 2 other nationally recognized young musicians (and temple members): cellist Danielle Merlis and violinist Sam Weiser.

Amazingly, this is Jake’s 2nd world premiere this spring. Last month, the New York Philharmonic performed a piece he wrote for their School Day concert. That one, he says, was “adventurous, aggressive and knotty.” Tomorrow’s piece is “simpler.” A synagogue is not a concert hall.

Working from a text, Jake composed this work for the “up-in-the-stratosphere soprano” cantor.

Jake Landau, rehearsing at the synagogue’s piano. (Photo/Marcy Juran)

He calls the process “very rewarding. It’s not just that it will be performed by my choir. Most of my pieces are done in high-pressure concert halls, and everyone is rushed for time. This is a much more personal environment.”

Conservative Synagogue Chorale member Marcy Juran is “blown away” by Jake’s talent.

“He understands how to create a beautiful piece of music,” she says. “But the way he explains his work to the choir — how it’s constructed, how he envisions it to sound, how his music matches the liturgical text — is unparalleled.

“It reminds me of hearing Leonard Bernstein explain music — but Jake is only 16! It is a joy to listen to play his piece on the piano, direct us, and understand from him what this is all about.

Still a teenager, Jake understands the long tradition he’s part of. “Music is a craft that’s existed almost as long as man,” he notes. “Music is practical, emotive and evocative. Music is everywhere. I’m proud to help continue that legacy.”

Danielle Merlis and Sam Weiser will also perform at the Conservative Synagogue tomorrow. (Photo/Marcy Juran)

Though Jake also studies piano at Juilliard, his playing is secondary to  composing. In fact, he says, “some of the pieces I write are too difficult for me to play. Someone plays my stuff for me.”

He hopes to make a career in music — writing film scores, operas, commercial soundtracks, “whatever.”

So — after spending the past 2 summers at Interlochen and Tanglewood — this year Jake will stay home. He’ll write orchestral and chamber pieces for his conservatory and music school applications.

Oh, yeah. His college essay, too.

(“On a Chai Note: A Musical Celebration of Israel” free concert takes place Sunday, June 3, 7 p.m. at The Conservative Synagogue, 30 Hillspoint Rd. The program also includes The Western Wind, a renowned a cappella sextet, and Jewish choral singers from throughout Fairfield County. For more information, click here.)

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