Living Local: World-class Musicians Perform in Former Bank Turned Recital Space

I once heard Joshua Bell, the famous violinist, talk about the salon-style concerts that he and friends hold in their living rooms. Bell and his companions gather in this relaxed environment to laugh, play and experience great music and enjoy each other’s company. I find this same balance of intimacy, friendliness and extraordinary musical talent at LightSoundSpace in Rahway, NJ. 

Jim and Genevieve Luce, the owners of LightSoundSpace, bring some of the world’s best jazz and classical musicians to perform in this beautiful space. A former savings bank, this distinctive building is now used as a space for concerts and a recording studio, as well as an art gallery (the subject of a future post), digital media lab, and more.  There is no stage; chairs and couches are set up within a few feet of the musician, who performs with a dramatic red wall in the background. The atmosphere is entirely unique and incredibly intimate for concerts of this quality.

Last night, twenty-five people gathered in the Luces’ ‘living room’ to listen to Cuban-born Juan-Carlos Formell in a rare solo performance. This Grammy-nominated musician played a number of traditional songs on guitar in the trova and bolero styles , and then performed his own compositions drawing from the two approaches. At the end of the concert, wine was served, music was played on the hi-fi, and visitors talked with Formell or browsed the Luces’ extensive vinyl record collection.

This is not the only concert that LightSoundSpace will hold this fall. On November 13, pianist Joel Fan will perform on the incredible Fazioli piano purchased by the City of Rahway, which is currently housed in LightSoundSpace. Joel Fan combines great classical compositions of the past with the music of cultures from around the world. He has played with renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma as a member of the Silk Road Ensemble at Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. 

Then on December 18, vocalist José James will perform songs from his newly released album, blending modern jazz and hip-hop in a soulful, fresh sound. James performs all over the world and was recently voted 2011 DownBeat Critics Poll “Rising Star Best Male Vocalist”.

Besides presenting this exciting music series, the Luces’ produce albums and radio programs that are broadcast worldwide, as well as the celebrated Caramoor Jazz Festival in Katonah, NY. 

LightSoundSpace is located at 1591 Irving Street in the heart of the Rahway Arts District. Tickets for the Joel Fan and José James concerts are $15. Seating is limited so purchasing in advance is suggested to ensure admittance. For more information, call 732-381-7400. Visit ArtsRahway.com for a calendar of arts and cultural events, arts venues, and a list of restaurants and shops in Rahway.