As in years past, John Zorn will be back this week at his East 2nd Street music club, The Stone, to close out 2016 with a series of special “Improv Nights.” But this year’s concerts are likely to be bitter-sweet. News broke in the past couple of days that the beloved center of avant-garde music is apparently closing in early 2018. The good news: There’s still another year to enjoy music at The Stone.
As the Destination: Out Twitter feed noted on Monday, the not-for-profit club’s online calendar for Feb. 20-25 of 2018 includes the following entry: “Farewell to The Stone: John Zorn Improv Week Celebration to ring the bell, close the book and quench the candle for The Stone.”
The New York Times contacted Zorn to find out what’s happening:
In an emailed statement, Mr. Zorn confirmed the timing of the closure, but added that a future was likely for the Stone in another space. “We hope to secure a new location and discussions are proceeding, but as yet nothing has been definitely decided,” he wrote. “We do hope you will all enjoy this last year in our historic underground East Village location and that you will all follow the music wherever it leads,” continues the statement, which he said would be soon posted to the club’s website. “Venues come and go, but the music continues on forever!”
This week’s improv performances take place Thursday and Friday. These are benefit concerts to help the venue “stay afloat.” Here’s the Facebook invite if you’d like to attend.
