In this musical age of expanding genres and experimental combinations of different styles, Dana Leong is strung for success. Often referred to as “hi-def Yo-Yo Ma,” Leong is celebrated for his acoustic-meets-electronic blend of jazz, pop, and classical tunes. Rocking out on an electric cello that he plays like no other, Leong brings his music to Tahoe/Truckee for the first time ever this February.
The Dana Leong Trio West, which usually tours once a year, features Leong on electric cello and electronics with longtime musical collaborator Pat Korte (of Shotgun Wedding and Jazz Mafia) on drums and electronics, and a special guest on electric bass. While this is the trio’s first stop in Tahoe, Leong said that the band has many musical friends in the area and “who knows who might jump in for some impromptu jams.”
A lifelong musician based in New York City, Leong has dedicated himself to creating his own style of composing and playing music. From being a Yamaha-certified musician to his current project of helping to plan the musical programming for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, his unique take on jazz, rock, and electronic music is refreshingly engaging and fun.
“We are finding new ways to feature the cello,” Leong said. “It is known to be a melodic, lush, romantic instrument and we definitely use it that way, but [we] also frame its sound in wild, new ways.”
Through Truckee’s Arts for the Schools, Leong and his band members will also teach local musicians about composing music, technology for studios and stage, and how to develop creativity. The trio will visit several North Shore and Truckee schools on Feb. 4 and 5 for student clinics, and hold a public workshop on Feb. 4. The trio will conclude their Tahoe stop with a concert on Feb. 6 through Arts for the Schools and Truckee Donner Recreation & Park District’s First Friday Music, and a show in Nevada City two days later.
“Giving back to the community through group lessons, classes, and workshops is something we are very dedicated to doing,” Leong said. “I think it is very important for me to share my own success story … Had I not followed my own passion, I do not think I would have had a fraction of the success, fulfillment, or following.”
