Alum and CAP Program Manager James Waterman (Music MFA 15) joins multi-instrumentalist Joel Reed Mankey to release In Spring—a Celtic-inspired album and live concert of original music that reimagines the spirit of folk tradition through a global lens. The project blends Celtic tonality with Indian classical textures, West African rhythms, and cinematic soundscapes, celebrating cross-cultural collaboration and creative connection.
In Spring was born from Waterman’s studies in World Music at CalArts, and the recording features several CalArts alumni performers: Yvette Holzwarth (Music MFA 16), Jett Kwong (Music BFA 14), Clarice Cast (Music MFA 15), and Waterman. The album recording was mixed and mastered by Brendan Byrnes (Music MFA 12).
To celebrate the album’s release, Waterman and Mankey take the stage on Sunday, Nov. 2 at Scribble in Highland Park, California, joined by guests including Kate Outterbridge & Friends (Irish traditional music), Neel Agrawal, Anaís Azul (Music MFA 22) with her band performing new Andean folk music; Emilia Moscoso Borja (Music MFA 19); and June Youngblood (Music MFA 23), along with the recording performers Cast, Kwong, and Holzwarth.
The all-ages show is presented by CIACLA (Contemporary Irish Arts Center Los Angeles).
