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Aaron Lakota in Recital: "Where Does It Come From?"
Featuring the Eclectic Arts Trio & Bassist Dave Picchi
Oboist Aaron Lakota presents an inventive chamber program at The Drake, exploring childhood innocence, creative origins, and musical transformation.
Inspired by the uninhibited wonder and curiosity of youth, the recital weaves together evocative contemporary chamber works, romantic storytelling, and celebrated jazz standards. Joined by the Eclectic Arts Trio (Jean Jeffries, Clifton J.Noble, Jr, and Lakota) and bassist David Picchi, Lakota traces how simple, playful ideas grow into enduring musical expressions—bridging classical traditions and vibrant jazz grooves in an evening of rich artistic discovery
Western Massachusetts native Aaron Lakota is a versatile oboist and dedicated advocate for the arts throughout New England. A frequent presence on regional stages, he performs regularly with Pioneer Valley Symphony, Juno Chamber Orchestra, Springfield Symphony, Tundi, and Eclectic Arts Trio.
Deeply invested in the next generation of musicians, Aaron serves on the faculties of Dartmouth College and Amherst College, while mentoring local students from his home studio in Greenfield. As a Professional reed maker, he is frequently invited to give guest lectures on the art of reed making at various colleges and universities. This expertise also supports the broader oboe community through his business, A. Lakota Reeds, which provides reeds and supplies to hundreds of oboists across North America.
Aaron holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and an associate degree from Holyoke Community College. He credits much of his musical foundation to the mentorship of Tamara Field and Fredric T. Cohen
David Picchi has been performing and teaching music in Massachusetts’ Pioneer Valley since 2001. As an electric and double bass player, guitar player and singer, has been called to play on many recording projects and is known for his ability to perform with any lineup, in any genre, for any audience.
Jean Jeffries performs and lectures on modern, classical and baroque horns. A graduate of Harvard College committed to liberal arts education, Jean teaches horn, coaches chamber music, and advises the Alphorn Club at Amherst College.