With a mix of pieces by living composers and those of the past, this collaborative recital is sure to be a treasured experience for all who attend. Anthony McGill is one of classical music’s most recognizable and brilliantly multifaceted figures. In addition to his dynamic international solo and chamber music career, McGill is principal clarinet of the New York Philharmonic—the first African-American principal player in the organization's history, and is known for his “trademark brilliance, penetrating sound and rich character” (The New York Times). The exceptionally thoughtful pianist Emanuel Ax has been one of the most beloved performers in the world of classical music for decades. Their eclectic program includes a recent work by James Lee III; stirring short pieces by Florence Price and Jessie Montgomery; Bernstein’s Clarinet Sonata; Adolphus Hailstork’s The Blue Bag (composed personally for McGill and inspired by Ella Fitzgerald, Lena Horne, and more); and a melodious Schubert sonata of fascinating origin that shines on clarinet. This will be the first time for this dream duo to appear together in recital on the Series. “Ax’s greatness, his overwhelming authority as a musician, technician and probing intellect emerges quickly as he plans.” - Los Angeles Times “McGill is a captivating virtuoso on the stage, and a longtime advocate for social change extending beyone it…” - The New York Times