An original composition by Thomas Manuel, Stony Brook University Endowed Artist in Residence, was performed on April 16 at The Jazz Loft in Stony Brook as part of the Inauguration Celebration for President Andrea Goldsmith.
The piece, titled “Heritage,” was written to mark Goldsmith’s investiture as the university’s seventh president and honors more than six decades of artistic tradition at Stony Brook. The work was performed by the Stony Brook University Jazz Orchestra, which includes both undergraduate and graduate students. Rich DeRosa, known for his work with Jazz at Lincoln Center and other international ensembles, arranged the piece.
Manuel said about his composition: “I wanted something that was celebratory and captured the excitement of where we are at as a university. I wanted musically for people to feel the energy and excitement of our incredible accomplishment as a flagship institution, the incredible potential of our diverse and creative student body, as well as the rich history we stand on.”
“Heritage” begins with an opening chorale dedicated to President Goldsmith before transitioning into melodies influenced by African rhythms and Brazilian Baião grooves. The performance featured soloists Alex Soto (piano), Dario Chiazzolino (guitar), and Alejandro Espinosa (trombone), all Doctor of Musical Arts jazz students.
Goldsmith thanked Manuel during her remarks: “Thank you, Tom, for creating this incredible place, for bringing outstanding jazz to our Stony Brook and broader community, for engaging our talented students and faculty in projects with the Jazz Loft and for devoting your incredible energy, talent and vision to the success of this museum and performance space,” she said. “And I want to especially thank Tom for composing a special piece in honor of my inauguration. Having your creativity and composing brilliance captured for me in such a special way as part of my inauguration is meaningful beyond words. I’ve never had a piece of music composed in my honor, so I will truly treasure this gift forever.”
During the event, State Assemblywoman Rebecca Kassay presented Goldsmith with a citation from New York State Assembly District 4.
The Jazz Orchestra represents students from more than six countries across disciplines ranging from physics to applied mathematics alongside music studies. Manuel is also recognized as a jazz historian involved in educational outreach efforts internationally.
Goldsmith concluded her speech highlighting community engagement: “Enhancing our community service and engagement is a part of our vision to bring Stony Brook University to new heights of excellence and impact across all dimensions of our mission, and to positively impact the lives of the people in our communities,” she said.
