Jamie Baum: Redefining Jazz with Poetry and Global Sounds

Show Notes: In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, Steven Roby sits down with the extraordinary flutist, composer, and educator Jamie Baum. Known for her trailblazing work blending jazz with classical, South Asian, and spoken-word influences, Jamie discusses her latest album, What Times Are These. She reflects on her inspirations, her creative process of setting modern poetry to music, and her enduring passion for musical exploration. The conversation also highlights Jamie’s upcoming West Coast performances, including her shows in Santa Cruz, San Francisco, and Half Moon Bay. Listeners will gain insights into Jamie’s unique Septet+ and her quartet and the challenges and triumphs of composing during the pandemic.  Guest Information: Jamie BaumFlutist, composer, Sunnyside Records artist, and educator. Explore her work and stay updated: Website: jamiebaum.com Social Media:  X: @JamieBaumFlute Facebook: Jamie Baum Upcoming Performances: Santa Cruz Date: January 23, 2025 Venue: Kuumbwa Jazz Center Time: 7:00 PM Tickets San Francisco Date: January 24, 2025 Venue: SFJAZZ Two Sets: 7:00 PM & 8:30 PM Tickets Half Moon Bay Date: January 26, 2025 Venue: Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society Tickets Essential Episode Takeaways: Jamie Baum’s genre-defying approach to jazz integrates modern poetry, South Asian influences, and classical techniques. The Septet+ allows her to explore rich orchestral colors, while her quartet offers a more intimate, improvisational experience. Her latest album, What Times Are These, was deeply influenced by the pandemic and features a unique collaboration with poets and vocalists. Jamie will bring a talented ensemble, including Leo Genovese, Matt Penman, and Rob Garcia, to her West Coast performances. Call-to-Action: Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more intimate conversations with trailblazing artists. Follow us on YouTube at youtube.com/@BackstageBayArea and listen on Apple Podcasts. Podcast Playlist: “Song Without Words” “Dreams” “Sorrow Song” Hashtags: #JamieBaum #WhatTimesAreThese #Jazz #ModernJazz #BackstageBayArea #SFJazz #FluteMusic #SantaCruzJazz #HalfMoonBayMusic Photo: Erika Kapln