"No Further Instructions," a performance by Howard Fishman with New York Times travel journalist and photographer Michael Benanav, gets under way at 8 p.m. Friday, March 1, in the Arthur Zankel Music Center on the Skidmore College campus.
"No Further Instructions" seeks to unravel the complexities of the American Jewish identity. The songs work to develop an introspective narrative about the rich experiences and eccentric people that the pair encountered in Eastern Europe. As Fishman explains, "At its core, 'No Further Instructions' is about community and spirituality in the 21st century - about what it means to live a mindful life, and what connects us all as humans and citizens of the world."
Fishman uses his music to develop a more profound understanding of his heritage and identity as a Jewish American. The content is personal, the voice is Jewish, and the music is incredibly American. A critically acclaimed singer, guitarist, composer and bandleader, Fishman filters a deep passion for jazz, soul, open-hearted country, blues, and gospel music through an original, experimental aesthetic to create a unique sound.
Fishman's most recent recording, his 10th, is The Howard Fishman Quartet Vol. III: Moon Country, released in 2011. The Frozen North, his original score for the Buster Keaton silent film of the same name, was programmed and performed as part of the 2012 New York Guitar Festival at Merkin Hall in New York City. He has recently been working on a new project titled A Star Has Burnt My Eye, an examination of the life and music of Connie Converse.
"No Further Instructions" is part of the Jacob Perlow Series of events presented at Skidmore College by the Office of the Dean of Special Programs.
Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for seniors and the Skidmore community, and free for students and children. Please visit www.skidmore.edu/zankel for ticket information.