How the pianist is celebrating ing the 250th anniversary of the the 250th anniversary of the United States with her United States with her groundbreaking project, groundbreaking project, DDECLARATION ECLARATION
QUINN MASON QUINN MASON
From prodigy to pathbreaker: From prodigy to pathbreaker: Go inside the mind of one of Go inside the mind of one of today’s most exciting young today’s most exciting young American composers American composers
CLARICE ASSAD CLARICE ASSAD
Meet Clarice Assad, prolific Brazilian- Meet Clarice Assad, prolific BrazilianAmerican composer, vocalist, multi- American composer, vocalist, multiinstrumentalist, and educator instrumentalist, and educator
As we approach the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026, several artists are creating inclusive, visionary projects that transcend boundaries, reflect on America’s evolving identity, and celebrate unity. In addition to Lara Downes’ Declaration, poetjournalist Aaron Dworkin2005 MacArthur Fellow and Founder of the Sphinx Organization - offers poignant works such as The American Rhapsody, which tells the story of the USA through the prism of the life and words of America’s first President, George Washington; and America 250, an evocative, multidisciplinary experience capturing our nation’s spirit through its enduring ideals - Liberty, Democracy, and Unity. Clarice Assad and Indian-born dancer/choreographer Preeti Vasudevan collaborate on Voices of Women, a powerful work exploring the concept of “home” from the perspectives of immigrant-American and First Nations women. Through interwoven stories, it reflects on narratives of adversity and the enduring strength and hope of women across cultures. Clarice also partners with Kentucky-born violinist, Tessa Lark on a new double concerto for piano, voice, and violin—an homage to the rich and diverse musical traditions that have flourished throughout the Americas. Finally, Preeti Vasudevan joins forces with renowned percussionist Evelyn Glennie to produce and direct Listen: How a Deaf Girl Inspired Millions to Dream—a fully inclusive, family-friendly production that uses music, dance, and ASL interpretive movement to tell Glennie’s extraordinary story of resilience and triumph.
These are just a few of the visionary artists whose work will be featured at Eden—and whose projects are shaping conversations far beyond the concert hall.
As always, I invite you to explore the pages ahead. You’ll find new commissions, boundarybreaking collaborations, and programs designed for audiences of all ages—including those created with families in mind. Whether you're seeking a project rooted in intergenerational storytelling, technological innovation, cultural history, or sheer musical brilliance, we are here to connect you with artistry that resonates deeply in today’s world.
With gratitude and anticipation,
Julia Levitan
CEO & Co-Founder, Cadenza Artists // President & Co-Founder, iCadenza // Founder, Eden Arts Festival
NEWS
This past year, violinist Kelly HallTompkins wowed audiences at the Lucerne Festival’s premiere of Wynton Marsalis’ Violin Concerto with Chineke!, debuted with LACO, and returned to Madison Symphony, where critics praised her as “spellbinding” and “a stunning showcase of talent ” She also unveiled a new all-string version of her Fiddler Rhapsody, expanding its reach for orchestras on tour
Clarice Assad continues an acclaimed season with performances of PLAY!, her interactive concerto with Third Coast Percussion gaining national momentum, and major premieres of Retro-Scope, with the Utah Youth Symphony at the LOA 2025 Conference and Frankenstein, a 60-composer collaboration commissioned by the Allentown Symphony showcasing her dynamic voice across orchestral innovation and storytelling
PROJECT Trio continues to expand its orchestral footprint with recent and upcoming performances across the U.S., showcasing its genre-defying blend of classical, jazz, and beatbox flute Looking ahead, the ensemble will premiere a new concerto by rising star composer, Quinn Mason in Fall 2026, written specifically to highlight their virtuosic and adventurous style Co-commissioning opportunities still available!
Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and Music Director, Jaime Martín announced the appointment of Lara Downes as the Orchestra’s FIRST Creative Partner Downes is a decorated pianist, recording artist, and media personality who is deeply committed to change and advocacy in the arts Her three-year appointment began on July 1, 2024, and touches virtually every aspect of the organization, spanning LACO’s artistic planning, performance, community engagement, advocacy, and education platforms In addition to her new LACO responsibilities, Downes will continue her independent performance, broadcasting, and recording activities
In addition to a documentary being made about his extraordinary life, six-time GRAMMY® Award winner and mulitinstrumentalist Daniel Ho has also been selected for the "Ki-ho'alu Legacy Award" given at the 48th Annual Hoku Awards in June 2025. Hawaii’s equivalent of the GRAMMYs®, this award is given to a deserving individual who has played a large part in promoting, preserving and perpetuating the art form ki-ho'alu (aka slack key guitar)
Composer Quinn Mason has had a standout 2024/25 season, with powerful performances by the Dallas, Phoenix, Spokane, Maryland, Fairfax, Tallahassee, Plano, Princeton, Firelands, and Waco Symphony Orchestras, as well as Symphony New Hampshire and Northwest Sinfonietta On his 29th birthday in March 2025, he made his Chicago Symphony debut praised by the Chicago Tribune as “the work of a mature composer ”
To mark America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, MacArthur Fellow and poetjournalist Aaron Dworkin will unveil America 250, a moving fusion of classical music and poetic storytelling exploring the nation’s journey through Liberty, Democracy, and Unity With his signature blend of artistry and activism, Dworkin offers a profound, immersive experience that reflects America’s triumphs, struggles, and enduring ideals through this new project Learn more on Page 20
#1 Billboard jazz/pop artist Spencer Day is launching La Frontera, a crossborder symphonic project fusing jazz, traditional Latin American music, and orchestral elements Featuring top artists from the U.S. and Mexico, the project celebrates cultural collaboration through genre-blending compositions that reflect Day’s unique musical voice and years living abroad
In June 2025, VenezuelanAmerican pianist Vanessa Perez will perform her duo piano program A Fuego Lento (page 23) with Latin Grammy winner, Kristhyan Benítez at the renowned Rzeszów Castle in Poland, before embarking on her largest European tour with New Worlds, starring Bill Murray alongside Jan Vogler and Mira Wang.
LARA DOWNES
Pianist / Speaker / Curator
Lara Downes is a trailblazing pianist behind some of the most groundbreaking new orchestral works. Cadenza interviewed the artist to learn more!
Lara, you have an exciting new commissioning project to honor the 250th anniversary of the United States. Can you tell us more about that?
Yes! Declaration is premiering in 2026 to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the founding of this nation It's a commission from three leading American composers: Valerie Coleman, Arturo O'Farrell, and Christopher Tin Each is writing a new piece for me entitled, respectively, Life, Liberty, and Pursuit of Happiness. This project is a deep dive into these three concepts that are so central to that founding documentconcepts that have always fascinated me in their boldness and scope of vision
How did those concepts inspire this new work and what do they mean to you?
I wanted to reflect on what those concepts mean today, to create a new declaration for our time by engaging with many American communities - big and small - and having conversations about what the ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness mean to us, individually and collectively We’re reflecting on how we experience these concepts within the framework of our lives, and how we would like to shape our present and future around them
Of course, in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was signed, there was a massive imbalance - to whom those rights were guaranteed, to whom the American promise was made - and I want to reflect on that as well. This project is really a broad and nuanced perspective on the complexities of the American experiment
You mentioned that you wanted to connect with communities to examine these concepts further. Can you elaborate?
Yes, I'm going deep into American communities, holding workshops to gather texts, ideas, and writings from a wide range of folks Everwhere from LA to New York, Knoxville to Austin, big cities, small towns... This project represents a broad range of voices and ideas As different as we are as Americans, as difficult as it is for us to be united in anything, I feel more and more - through my work with American music - that music is a place where we can exist as a community It’s the place where we can come together, hear each other, listen to each other; where we can share our languages, our stories, our backgrounds, our journeys; where we can find common ground, shared experiences, and realize that our dreams and hopes are very much connected. So, I hope that this new declaration that we create is a portrait of the best that we can be, a projection of our country going forward
Speaking of today’s America, toward the end of last year you premiered a new arrangement of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, appropriately titled Rhapsody in Blue Reimagined. What was it like to premiere it and why is it important for you to continue playing this new work in the future?
Rhapsody in Blue Reimagined is a new reflection of this piece that is so iconic and so beloved I think the 100year point is an excellent time to understand what this music means in our world today On a personal level, one of the things I love most about this piece is Gershwin's
“Lara Downes is a uniquely gifted, acclaimed and curious artist who recognizes the complexity of our collective narratives of ourselves and our country in everything she does. [Declaration] creates spaces for us to listen in a new way and participate in a shared imagining, all led by the belief that we are stronger together.”
— Shanta Thake, Ehrenkranz Chief Artistic Officer, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
vision for it He called it his “vision of the musical kaleidoscope of America ” It's celebrating the melting pot And that made me think a lot about what the melting pot was in 1924, what the melting pot is today - how much more expansive the pot is and how many new cultures, sounds, voices, stories, and traditions have come into this country since Gershwin knew it What Gershwin was doing at the time was really an experiment He was reaching into the tradition of jazz and intentionally melding it with the European classical tradition
I've always had this relationship with the piece where I'm thinking, “What are these rhythms and sounds that Gershwin is hearing and trying to assimilate and trying to translate?” So together with Edmar Colón - the incredible composer who re-orchestrated and reimagined the piece with me - we went back to those roots, the origins of jazz And of course, in the end, it comes from Africa So there's this huge component of Afro-Caribbean percussion in the piece, digging deep into the rhythms that Gershwin was hearing for the first time
At the same time, we're trying to represent this expanded “musical kaleidoscope” as it exists now In the last 100 years, people have come here from every corner of the globe So we've included musical elements from Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas - a broad picture of American life and culture today We've also constructed the piece so that it's site-specific: everywhere it travels in America, it will reflect local traditions For example, when we premiered the piece in San Francisco, we featured an ensemble of traditional Chinese instruments because of the essential story of Chinese immigration to that region
When we go to Dallas, that section will go to a blues ensemble, because the blues have such a deep and rich history in that city. It’s really exciting to engage with local traditions and local sounds wherever we go!
You are one of the most active artists in commissioning new works. Can you share more about that mission and what is coming up next?
Being part of the present and helping to create the future is the most important part of being an artist If I were to be engaging only with the past, I wouldn’t be doing my job This art form is constantly evolving and constantly redefining itself So to be part of that is the most thrilling thing that I do A lot of my work has been concerned with addressing the fact that the full scope of this music has historically been either overlooked or intentionally obscured And that’s created a false notion of who has created American music and who it's for. There's nothing more exciting for me than seeing change and the future health and survival of our art form
Billy Childs, one of my most admired American artists, is among the composers who will be writing a piece for me next I love exploring and playing in the space of American music By expanding the canon, I hope to create exciting and hopeful repertoire for the audiences of today and for the next generations
Learn more about Lara Downes and her projects on pages 14 & 29. www.laradownes.com
QUINN MASON
Named by Texas Monthly as “one of the most sought-after young composers in the country,” Quinn Mason joined Cadenza for a conversation about his creative process, his inspirations, and his bold vision for the future.
How would you describe your musical voice or aesthetic? Is there a particular sound or message you aim to communicate through your work?
“There’s something for everyone ” This is a phrase that I believe accurately describes my musical style at the moment. My music is deeply personal to me, and I find that it easily connects to people, even across generations The idea of creating a memorable musical experience for some, even one I’ve never met, appeals to me and motivates me to create I communicate whatever I feel in the moment, I always write what sounds good to me, and I consider it a goal to be true to myself
Where do you typically draw inspiration from when starting a new composition?
The inspiration can come from a number of different sources, including things I’ve studied deeply, read about, or experiences I’ve had When it comes to crafting compositions for specific organizations or performers, I try to get to know them as much as possible as people so that I may craft a composition that is more personal to them
Of your recent works, which are you most proud of, and what makes that piece especially meaningful to you?
In 2023, I composed ‘She Dreams of Flying’ as the final part of my residency with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra The piece is dedicated to that orchestra’s music director, Carolyn Kuan It is also a tribute to the amazing women in my life, most of whom were essential in helping me get to where I am
Composer/ Conductor
a composer and person today In addition, my Symphony No 6 for wind ensemble (2024) is another personal work, especially since it’s a milestone in my journey in composing for the band
Your new piece, Electric Beauty, has a striking title. Can you share the story or inspiration behind the work?
The title was partly inspired by the Utah Youth Orchestra’s slogan, which is “Seek Beauty, Create Harmony, Scatter Joy” I knew I wanted to write something that paid tribute to the familial vibe of the orchestra, as well as the amazing person who built it, Barbara Scowcroft. I first conducted them in February 2024 The chemistry was electric, and the musicians' passionate playing was beautiful Thus, the title.
You’ve worked closely with many young artists and emerging composers. What draws you to this kind of mentorship, and how do you approach it?
I have a firm belief that music is a human experience, a gift to the shared as widely and generously as possible Therefore, my work with young composers and musicians is extremely important to me So much was given to me when I was younger in terms of mentorship, so I believe that it’s my turn to give back now that I’m in a position to do so I usually offer masterclasses, where I listen to a young artist’s work and offer feedback, and I also give lectures on career and life as a musician. I particularly enjoy talking about my real-world experience in the profession to give them insight as to what it's like to have a life in music.
You’ve worked closely with many young artists and emerging composers. What draws you to this kind of mentorship, and how do you approach it?
As creators of music, especially contemporary music, I feel
“
that we can easily invite people into our world of music through community engagement Tasks such as lectures in places where classical music is not easily accessible, beginning composition courses for casual listeners, and mounting interactive performances where the audience is essential can help demystify the aura behind classical music, deepen the appreciation of the art, and create informed and active listeners Many generations of music lovers are created in this way, and as I like to say, you never know who’s in the audience listening
Lately, you've been more active as a conductor in addition to composing. What motivated you to step onto the podium, and how do you envision this side of your career developing?
I believe I was naturally inclined toward conducting from an early age because I always felt music physically In addition, I’ve been listening to and studying the classical music repertoire for a long time (since I was 10), and so it’s truly a part of who I am as a musician. It is also a great experience collaborating with a group of musicians to bring a piece of music to life and discover the secrets in the score together To stand on a podium in front of musicians and have this opportunity is a privilege and honor I feel I’m deeply in love with the repertoire and also love conducting music by the next generation of composers as well, so my guess is that as this decade unfolds, I’ll conduct a lot more I especially envision myself guest conducting concerts of repertoire I hope to someday become a principal guest conductor or a music director somewhere, but I’m enjoying the learning journey
What’s the experience like conducting your own work compared to conducting works by other composers?
When I conduct my own music, I find that to effectively teach it to the orchestra, I have to pretend like I didn’t write it In a sense, I have to put on a different hat when I’m studying and rehearsing it than when I was composing it In a sense, it’s
not too different than conducting a work of Beethoven or Stravinsky; I must study it deeply and analyze it the same so that I can rehearse it effectively and give a convincing and accurate performance
How does it feel to hear your compositions interpreted by other conductors? Are there ever surprises?
I’m very intentional in my scores about how I want the music to sound, but I also love leaving room for flexibility That often leads to fascinating interpretations I never could have imagined. Most conductors are incredibly respectful and will ask before trying something new and, of course, my answer is almost always yes! This kind of collaboration keeps the music alive and evolving, which is really exciting to me.
In an increasingly complex and changing world, what’s your broader vision or hope for the future?
I realize that I’m here for a reason That reason is to create music experiences that bring brightness to the lives of musicians and audiences, if only for a moment It really makes everything worthwhile when I hear that someone has a deep connection with something I’ve created. I hope to keep bringing joy for as long as I am able
Looking ahead, what do you believe orchestras should be considering or evolving toward over the next decade?
A lifelong love of music can begin very young Therefore, orchestras should take great care in encouraging the next generation of music lovers and musicians Community engagement, especially in the schools, is very important in this case And the establishment of after-school programs and youth orchestras would be paramount This is to ensure the future of music will be in good, safe hands.
Learn more about Quinn Mason and his projects on pages 13, 17-18, & 36. www.masonianmusic.com
…Quinn Mason, a brilliant composer who seems to make waves wherever he goes.”
Renowned for her versatility, Brazilian-American Clarice Assad is a GRAMMY® Award–nominated composer who also actively concertizes on stageas a singer, guitarist, percussionist, and pianistand sometimes, all in one concert! Acclaimed for her evocative colors, rich textures, and diverse stylistic range, we sat down with Clarice to get an inside look at what inspires her works and more.
You write beautiful, bold works that express a message that is both contemporary and ancient. What are the influences that play into your writing?
My most significant influence is the music I grew up with. As a child, I had no notion about geographic and cultural boundaries; I was raised in a family of musicians spanning at least three generations. My parents and relatives exposed me to a vast array of music worldwide, which influenced my thoughts and feelings about music to the point where I became fascinated by the fact that sound always moved me more than anything else
Your works play around with mixing genres and cultural influences, and often even involve the audience How would you describe your aesthetic?
I love listening to all kinds of music, so my playing with different genres comes from that idea My aesthetic is fluid in that it evokes multiple ideas that might not fit together initially, but I enjoy finding their connections This is probably also why I invite the audience to participate in
making music from the stage as a performer Much of it comes from a place of inspiration, of being in the moment and feeling a need to communicate and connect deeply with others
Many of your works are meant to be experienced in unconventional settings. Are out-of-the-box ideas just flowing through you constantly? How do you realize ideas that have not yet been attempted?
I have already written and done many wonderful projects I am proud of, some that are similar to each other and some that are entirely different As time passes, I keep searching for new territory and unexplored ways of making music – things that don't come naturally to me Realizing the visions is another story Will the idea work? Will it fail? The only way to know is to try. And the excitement of testing new waters propels me forward
Your work for the LA Phil received critical acclaim Can you share more about the piece and its influences?
Boitatá is a fiery serpent, a protector of the Amazon forest according to a legend that goes back at least 400 years My hope was to bring attention to this old story that seems to repeat itself through the centuries and get worse as time goes by: the destruction of our rainforest in the name of greed The music aims to embody the heroic essence of this creature and the people who created it This legend is a reminder that corruption and crimes against nature should not go unnoticed
"A Serious Triple Threat" – San Francisco Chronicle
Can you share more about your work RETRO-SCOPE that is premiering at the LAO 2025 Conference with the Utah Youth Symphony? How do you approach incorporating electronic elements in your writing?
RETRO-SCOPE explores the intersection of past and future, with "retro" meaning "past" in Latin and "scope" meaning "to observe" in Greek The piece creates a dialogue between traditional orchestral textures and electronic innovations, moving from separation to fusion across its 7-minute journey When incorporating electronic elements, I approach composition as a sonic conversation. I use a vocoder, and a Roli keyboard drumpad for textures that complement the orchestra's acoustic palette I'm particularly fascinated by using modern technology to reference historic sounds like electronic voices imitating theremin tones, creating a temporal paradox where listeners "hear the past" through contemporary means This blending of acoustic and digital realms allows me to explore new dimensions of expression while honoring orchestral tradition
With the rapid rise of AI tools across all industries, music and performance art stand on the edge of significant transformation. In your view, how might AI influence the future of music-making and live performance spaces?
AI stands to revolutionize music-making by serving as both a collaborative tool and creative catalyst While some fear automation might replace human artistry, I see opportunity in the partnership AI generating unexpected musical ideas that composers can then shape with human sensibility In performance spaces, we might witness new hybrid experiences where responsive AI systems interact with musicians in real-time, expanding the emotional palette
available to composers and creating unprecedented connections between performers and audiences.
In addition to being in demand as a composer and performer, you have received awards for your educational / outreach work as well as leading dynamic board retreats. Can you share more about this work?
My educational initiatives include VOXploration, an award-winning program I founded in 2015 that explores spontaneous music creation using only voice and body This innovative approach has received grants from CAIXA CULTURAL, SESC, New Music USA, and the McKnight Foundation Outside the “classroom,” I lead board retreats and workshops that use musical improvisation and collaboration to spark innovative thinking, problemsolving, and team-building Music has a unique way of breaking down barriers and encouraging people to listen, adapt, and think in new ways Whether I’m working with musicians, executives, or educators, the goal is the same: to inspire curiosity, creativity, and deeper connection
Which of your recent works are you most excited about, and why?
"I'm thrilled about 'PLAY!', my concerto with Third Coast Percussion, which has received tremendous audience response, and 'RETRO-SCOPE,' which expanded my creative palette. Since writing 'The Evolution of AI,' where I performed as a character conducting an orchestra, I'm excited about future works that can break the fourth wall and create innovative audience connections."
Learn more about Clarice and her projects on pages 13, 15, 17-18, 25-26, & 34. www.clariceassad.com
PLAY! Concerto with Third Coast Percussion
by Julia Levitan
In moments of uncertainty, when the world feels especially fragile or unpredictable, many of us instinctively retreat We seek safety, familiarity, control But paradoxically, it is in these very moments that boldness becomes most necessary and most rewarding.
Winston Churchill once said, “To each, there comes in their lifetime a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do something special unique to their talents What a tragedy if that moment finds them unprepared or unqualified ”
In uncertain times, that “tap on the shoulder” often comes disguised as disruption, as upheaval, as fear Yet for those willing to take the risk, to lean into discomfort rather than away from it, those very disruptions can reveal the path to purpose, creativity, and transformation
I’ve experienced this in my own journey more times than I can count When I co-founded iCadenza and later Cadenza Artists, there was no roadmap, no permission just a deep conviction that there had to be a better way to support artists as whole humans and build careers rooted in both soul and sustainability I left the safety of a traditional path and stepped into the unknown Years later, launching the Eden Arts Festival during a time when the arts were reeling from a global pandemic and sociopolitical polarization felt, frankly, mad! But I believed the world needed spaces for beauty, curiosity, and connection even in the midst of chaos.
What I’ve learned is this: those who take risks during uncertain times are not reckless. They are resilient. They are not fearless they’ve simply made peace with fear, and refuse to be governed by it
Why Risk-Takers
Are Rewarded
It’s not just about luck or timing. Risk-takers are often rewarded because they are the ones moving while others are frozen They’re experimenting, failing forward, learning quickly They gain experience faster Their boldness sets them apart. In creative industries especially, standing still is often the biggest risk of all
As Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail ”
Risk-takers innovate They expand what’s possible And in the process, they invite others to follow into new art forms, new business models, new paradigms
Risk tolerance isn’t an innate trait it’s a practice Like any muscle, it grows with repetition. Here are a few practical ways to stretch yours:
Start small, but start now.
You don’t need to upend your life to take a meaningful risk Pitch the project you’ve been sitting on Reach out to the person you admire. Say yes before you feel ready. Action builds courage
Normalize uncertainty.
Uncertainty is not the enemy It’s the birthplace of every great work of art, every innovation, every revolution
Reframe uncertainty as a space of possibility, not paralysis
Reflect on past risks—and their outcomes. What risks have you taken in your life so far? What did you learn? Even when things didn’t go as planned, did they lead to growth? Chances are, they did Let that history fortify you
Find community.
Surround yourself with people who dream big and dare boldly. Risk becomes less frightening when you’re not walking alone At iCadenza, we’ve built a community where that kind of boldness is celebrated and supported
Create your personal “why.”
Knowing what you’re risking for makes the leap easier For me, I take risks to build spaces that heal, connect, and inspire. What are you building? What would you regret not risking for?
From Surviving to Creating
Abraham Lincoln once said, “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” That act of creation of shaping your life and work with intention is inherently risky But it’s also your greatest source of agency
So if the ground beneath your feet feels shaky right now, you’re not alone But perhaps that’s the very invitation Not to retreat, but to rise. Not to wait, but to lead. Not to protect the past, but to imagine a new future and be brave enough to build it
We are living through a time that will be remembered What role will you play in it? What risk will you take? And what new world might it lead to?
iCadenza
How to Strengthen Your Risk Tolerance Muscle
Julia is the co-founder of iCadenza and Cadenza Artists and the founder of the Eden Arts Festival.
A trained operatic singer and creative entrepreneur, she supports visionary artists in building inspired, sustainable careers.
THE ROSTER
Voices of Women
Concerto for PROJECT Trio by Quinn Mason ownes, New Works for Piano and Orchestra e Concerto feat. Clarice Assad & Tessa Lark
A Life in Music: Sergio and Clarice Assad Theatrical Production About Evelyn Glennie
Click Clack Moosic Peace On Your Wings É Gol!
Cosmic Reflection
The Mute in's The American Rhapsody + America
250 Moon River & Me: Henry Mancini Celebration
Spencer Day
Judy Collins
Terry Barber udy Garrido Flamenco Presents: Amor Brujo
A Fuego Lento Bridge & Wolak: Tangorium PLAY!
VOXtopia
The Evolution of AI Flow Rigged March of the Penguins Hercules vs Vampires Frankenstein
Daniel Ho
Aldo López Gavilán
Lara Downes
Vanessa Perez
Kelly Hall-Tompkins
Laurie Rubin
Ariadne Greif
The Gavilán Brothers
PROJECT Trio
Clarice Assad
Nolan Gasser
Quinn Mason
José Luis Domínguez
Grant Gershon
Jeffrey Schindler
Elliott Forrest
Elkhanah Pulitzer
VOICES OF WOMEN
Multidisciplinary Commission
"[Vasudevan] can only be described as amazingly purposeful...constantly investigating fresh questions on existentialism and personal identity.” - Vogue
"[Assad]...A fresh singer and pianist who is also a first-rate story-teller."– Jazz Times
Voices of Women is a powerful live performance that blends music, dance, and visual media to illuminate women's narratives and their ties to American democracy At its heart is an intimate duet between two immigrant artists choreographer Preeti Vasudevan and composer Clarice Assad who fuse personal storytelling with recorded voices of Indigenous, immigrant, and African American women
Drawing on classical Indian dance and original musical compositions, the performance explores themes of migration, cultural inheritance, and the search for belonging. It asks the vital questions: What does it mean to be an American woman? How do personal and collective histories inform our democratic ideals? Immersive and thought-provoking, Voices of Women invites audiences to reimagine women not as observers but as vital agents of change in the unfolding story of America
Educational components based on the digitizing and filming of stories narrated by storytellers are available
TRIPLE CONCERTO FOR PROJECT TRIO BY QUINN MASON
"[PROJECT Trio]...First rate playing grounded in Classical Music" - Wall Street Journal
"What’s impressive...is Mason’s command of complex orchestral textures…[he] is a most impressive talent, and I look forward to hearing more from him " - Dallas Morning News
With a unique configuration of double bass, tenor sax, and a beat-boxing flutist, electrifying chamber music ensemble, PROJECT Trio is partnering with Quinn Mason, one of today’s most exciting young American composers, on a new 15-minute concerto
Likely structured in three movements (fast–slow–fast), the piece will be written specifically for the ensemble, highlighting both their group synergy and individual virtuosity in an orchestral setting. This concerto is sure to be a true ‘crowd pleaser’ in terms of its high energy!
Learn more about PROJECT Trio on pages 17 & 33
Learn more about Quinn Mason on pages 8-9, 17-18, & 36
NEW WORKS FOR PIANO AND ORCHESTRA LARA DOWNES
DECLARATION
In 2026, we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, founded on the core principles of “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
Acclaimed pianist Lara Downes examines these three essential concepts with DECLARATION, a groundbreaking triptych featuring three new works for piano and orchestra that weaves together music and personal narrative in a contemporary declaration of our collective hopes, struggles, and untold histories.
LIFE: by VALERIE COLEMAN
DECLARATION begins with an intimate reflection on the beauty and fragility of life, the shared humanity that connects us, and the potential we hold to protect and cherish one another in intention and action.
LIBERTY: by ARTURO O’FARRILL
A poignant and buoyant work that travels the long road of American history to acknowledge the courageous struggle for freedom, and to celebrate the progress that has been hardwon across generations as we work to realize the promise of liberty as an unalienable right for all Americans.
PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS: by CHRISTOPHER TIN
A vivacious and audaciously optimistic rhapsody that celebrates the ideals pursued and deserved not just by every American, but by all human beings, regardless of origin or identity.
The concert performance is framed by video portraits captured during Lara’s travels across America with THE DECLARATION PROJECT, an invitation across the nation that gathers together American communities to find common ground in reflecting on the magic and mystery of life, the ongoing quest for freedom and equality, and the radical power of joy.
MORE CO-COMMISSIONING OPPORTUNITIES:
TOTAL ECLIPSE: by CLARICE ASSAD
A piano concerto inspired by the total solar eclipse of April 8, 2024 that explores all the colors of the instruments through the prism of sound. This new work also refers to the light and darkness of our life journeys that have shaped the lives of both composer and soloist in recent years.
PIANO CONCERTO: by BILLY CHILDS
Billy Childs is one of the foremost American composers of his era, successfully marrying the musical products of his heritage with the Western neoclassical traditions of the twentieth century in a powerful symbiosis of style, range, and dynamism. His creative collaboration with Downes leans into her own broad vision for mining the legacies of history, family, and collective memory to excavate and expand the broad landscape of American music.
Honored as 2022 Classical Woman of the Year by Performance Today
DOUBLE CONCERTO FEAT. CLARICE ASSAD & TESSA LARK
Latin/Folk/Jazz Commission
"[Assad]...a talent beyond compare." - All Music Guide
"[Lark]...provided a lovely lyricism and rhythmic inflection that connected palpably." - artsBHAM
The Americas have long been home to a vibrant and evolving tapestry of musical traditions From the lively rhythms of Latin America to the expressive soul of jazz rooted in New Orleans, the sounds of this continent reflect a deep richness of culture and creativity.
In a spirit of connection and collaboration across musical and geographic borders, Brazilian-born composer and performer Clarice Assad and Kentucky-native violinist Tessa Lark will join forces to co-create and perform a double concerto for piano, voice, violin, and full orchestra to create a boundary-crossing piece that promises to captivate audiences with its fearless artistry and shared vision
A LIFE IN MUSIC
Family-rooted Guitar & Voice Commission
"A veritable musical dynamo." - San Francisco Classical Voice
Family, love, and a musical bond have driven these two incredibly inspired musicians and father-daughter pair to create a piece that celebrates their life in music.
Long-time collaborators Sergio and Clarice Assadwho were recently nominated for a GRAMMY® for Best Contemporary Music for their album with Third Coast Percussion, Archetypes - will again join forces to create A Life in Music, a piece for guitar, voice, and orchestra.
This story-telling musical rhapsody in concerto form aims to evoke many endearing, sweet, complicated, and challenging emotions that come with profound relationships. It is an ode to a life in music, a reflection of the in-depth bond and respect the father and daughter share
LISTEN
Inclusive Family-Friendly Commission
"Radiant" Publishers Weekly
This blending of dance, music, theatre, sign language, stage design, and visual projections is a lively and imaginative interpretation of Shannon Stocker’s book, Listen - the story of internationally renowned percussionist Evelyn Glennie who lost her hearing almost entirely when she was 12 and went on to become the world's most famous percussion soloist The story focuses on the resilience and grit of the young Evelyn to question societal taboos and emerge as a powerful role model for those dealing with either physical and emotional challenges or are labeled "disabled" by society
Perfect for families, this multimedia piece turns the phrase "no you can't" on its head and connects audiences to the power of overcoming challenges in pursuit of one’s dreams The story of young Evelyn underscores inclusion, equality, courage, and curiosity about the unique talents that each of us possesses Performances include ASL and musical interpretation for those impacted by audism or hearing limitations as integral parts of the choreography, story, and production.
Listen calls for everyone to see and hear things differently - like experiencing our senses magically for the first time in our lives - and is thoughtfully designed to be fully inclusive in consultation with Gallaudet University, a leading resource for the international deaf and signing community
Seeking additional commissioners for co-commissioning presentations between Fall 2026 and Fall 2028. Also seeking workshopping opportunities as well as funding support and presentations
*Most members of this creative team were born with or developed hearing impairment or limitations early in life.
Monique Holt Co-Director & Performer*
Shannon Stocker Author & Libretto Consultant
Evelyn Glennie Story & Music Consultant*
Raphaelle Thibaut Composer*
Preeti Vasudevan Artistic Director & Choreographer
DANIEL HO PROJECT TRIO
An exciting cross-over ensemble that has worked with over a million students. From classical to jazz to salsa, many works from their orchestral repertoire are tailored specifically for youth orchestras Some orchestras they’ve worked with include Louisville Youth Orchestra, Metropolitan Youth Orchestra (Portland), Empire Youth Orchestra (Greater New York), and Tallahassee Youth Orchestra, just to name a few.
Youth Repertoire for PROJECT Trio + Orchestra: Finale of William Tell - Rossini
Original PROJECT Trio Music for Trio + Youth Orchestra:
Djangish - Django Reinhardt inspired French Hot Jazz
The Bodega - Original Salsa inspired William Tell - Cool Bluesy tune
*All of our music can be arranged for any instrumentation and level
Read more about PROJECT Trio on pages 13 & 33
Six-time GRAMMY® award winner deeply committed to youth education and musicianship, including developing ukulele programs for schools, online, and at-home learning His ensemble performs with youth orchestras and provides all charts for his original compositions ranging from world music, contemporary Hawaiian, contemporary classical, contemporary jazz, and pop with elements of folk, acoustic rock, and reggae Orchestras he has worked with include the ʻIolani School Orchestra, Arcadia High School Orchestra, El Camino College Orchestra, and Stanford Chorale and Orchestra, among others
Highlighted Youth Repertoire for Daniel Ho + Orchestra: Aloha Pumehana Pineapple Mango
The Spam Song
Soaring on Dreams
Living In Paradise
Waimea Bay
When You Grow Up ... and many more
Read more about Daniel Ho on page 28
QUINN MASON CLARICE ASSAD
Still under age 30, Quinn is one of the most sought after young composers in the country When not writing, Quinn travels the US working with different youth orchestras performing his works, as well as guest conducting them Recent collaborations include the youth orchestras from Houston, Dallas, Central Kentucky, and Chattanooga, as well as the National Youth Orchestra of the United States and Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles.
Highlighted Youth Repertoire Includes: Toast of the Town Overture
Inspiration! Overture
Rise to the Occasion
Irish Dance Suite
Svítání
Read more about Quinn Mason on pages 8-9, 13, 18, & 36
Motivated by writing works that inspire and encourage audiences’ imaginations, Clarice’s works harness the incredible power of music to connect people and transform lives through original pieces, commissions, and education programs that help empower young voices. Her youth-oriented works inspire and encourage the imagination, and her recent collaborations include the youth orchestras from Chicago, Boston, Quad City, and the Unviversity of Maryland.
Highlighted Youth Repertoire Includes: Boncecos De Olinda (Full Orchestra)
Baião 'N' Blues (Full Orchestra)
Nhanderú (Full Orchestra & Reduced Orchestra)
Três Pequenas Variações (String Orchestra)
Read more about Clarice on pages 9-10, 13, 15, 18, 25-26, & 34
CLICK CLACK MOOSIC
A musical storytime event featuring the popular Click Clack Moo! series of children’s books set to original music by the Helix Collective’s resident composer, Phil Popham. Perfect for ages 3-7, the concerts include live music performances with projections, an interactive talk, and an instrument “petting zoo” The series includes separate concerts of each of the three books - Click Clack Moo, Giggle Giggle Quack, and Dooby Dooby Moo - and is intended to be performed either as a stand-alone presentation of the first book or as a multi-season series. Originally commissioned by West Michigan Symphony, the series has been their goto educational concert for over 10 years
PEACE ON YOUR WINGS
The Peace on Your Wings Orchestral Suite is a 20-minute work based on the original musical inspired by the true story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl from post-war Hiroshima whose 1,000 origami cranes became a global symbol of peace Poignant and timely, this work seeks to mobilize the peace movement sparked by Sadako’s legacy by honoring the 70th anniversary of the Hiroshima Children’s Memorial in 2028 As global tensions persist, Peace on Your Wings offers a deeply human call for empathy, healing, and hope, touching audiences worldwide with its uplifting storytelling. Ideal for professional or youth symphonies, the suite includes optional vocal and choral parts for community singers and youth choirs, and encourages partnerships with schools, youth theater companies, and local arts organizations. Touring cast members from the original production may also be available to participate Educational and community engagement around this moving and meaningful project is available. Seeking Co-Commissioners.
CLARICE ASSAD’S É GOL! WORKS BY QUINN MASON
É Gol! is inspired by the best female Brazilian soccer player, Marta Vieira da Silva It explores moments of her life and culminates with a soccer match soundtrack finale The piece is scored for full orchestra and the audience members who are not passive listeners but are part of the score as active participants Led by Assad, the audience goes in and out of sections by performing sound effects, singing, performing simple body percussion movements, and other exciting textures that either match or contrast with the music played by the orchestra
More Family Programming Works by Clarice Include: Sin Fronteras
Brazilian Fanfare
Boitatá
Ode to Carmen Miranda
Breakthrough young composer Quinn Mason is passionate about making music accessible to people of all ages Having discovered classical music while listening to the radio, by age 10 he was teaching himself to compose by writing down his improvisations Creating community is important to Mason, who sees music as a form of conversation that can inspire a deeply personal soul connection with others. His narrativedriven compositions typically reflect on rebirth, renewal, and the embodiment of joy
Family Programming Works Include:
A Joyous Trilogy, mvt 1: Running Inspiration! Overture
This is the Rope Christmas Eve Festivities Princesa de la Luna
COSMIC REFLECTION
Narrated Symphonic Work
Through its music and text, this 45-minute narrated symphonic work conveys the majestic 13 8-billion-year history of the Universe, commissioned in 2009 by NASA and Stanford University to commemorate the 1st International Symposium of the FERMI Space Telescope Cosmic Reflection presents the story of our Universe in an educational and aesthetic manner: from the Big Bang and Inflation to the birth and death of the first stars as Super Novae; from the birth of galaxies to the rise of life on Earth; and the eventual cold dissipation of the Universe. With a score by critically acclaimed composer and architect of Pandora Radio’s Music Genome Project Nolan Gasser, and a libretto by popular physicist Lawrence Krauss and members of the Stanford University physics community, this work is accompanied by a stunning video created by the visual design team at NASA Goddard and jaw-dropping images from the James Webb Space Telescope launch
Malcolm McDowell, the brilliant English actor, has signed on to narrate the work both for media releases and for forthcoming live performances in the US and internationally (schedule permitting).
THE MUTE
A SILENT LOVE STORY
Innovative Symphonic Silent Theatre
"Impressive, original and moving." - Stavanger Aftenblad
The Mute is an innovative theatrical piece that uses only music as language with no spoken words, creating a performance project that is truly singular In this beautiful love story, we meet elderly characters Tom and Jenny who show us snippets of their life together. Through these glimpses of the past, we come to know their personalities, how their lives have merged, and what brought them to where they are today
The theatrical concept plays with the idea of what happens when you remove the ability to communicate through spoken words and how to fill that void In The Mute, the void is filled with music, body language, scenography, and a complete symphony orchestra on stage
In 2019, The Mute premiered at Norway's Stavanger Konserthus to outstanding reviews and played seven soldout performances In the same year, it won the Hedda Prize for both "Performance of the Year" and for "Best Scenography, Costume Design, and Mask "
AARON DWORKIN
Spoken Word Artist
A MacArthur Fellow and founder of the Sphinx Organization, Aaron Dworkin is a distinguished poet-journalist, bestselling author, former dean, and current professor of Arts Leadership & Entrepreneurship at the University of Michigan. Throughout his celebrated career, he has championed a diversity of voices and the transformative power of the arts With unmatched expertise and a deep passion for storytelling and advocacy, Dworkin brings powerful insight to two symphonic projects that offer audiences a stirring reminder of our shared responsibility to uphold the principles on which the nation was founded.
Symphonic Projects Include
THE AMERICAN RHAPSODY
“Dworkin’s innate musicality and sense of timing serve him well in exploiting the dramatic arcs, musical peaks and valleys, and transitions of mood...”
– Rosalyn Story, Violinist.com
This spoken word multimedia orchestral work tells the story of the USA through the prism of the life and words of America’s first President, George Washington, set to Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Symphonic Variations on an African Air.
The American Rhapsody is a tribute to the ideals of courage, freedom, and commitment It is also a story of vulnerability and the progression of humanity through the great injustices that plague our history. The victories and agonies of our past not only resonate with, but inform our present as our nation seeks to find a pathway toward a more unified future
AMERICA 250
America 250 is an evocative, multidisciplinary experience created to commemorate the 250th anniversary of America's founding. This compelling new work seamlessly blends classical music with poetic storytelling, capturing our nation’s spirit through its enduring ideals - Liberty, Democracy, and Unity Through the powerful voice of Aaron Dworkin, whose artistry fuses lyrical verse with journalistic depth, audiences embark on an immersive journey through America's complex and evolving narrative.
Set to Aaron Copland's Symphony No 3, America 250 resonates with emotional depth, reflecting both the triumphs and the ongoing struggles in the nation's pursuit of freedom and equality. More than a performance, this project is a profound artistic statement - one that invites reflection, sparks dialogue, and reawakens our shared commitment to building a more just and unified future It challenges each listener to reimagine their place within the vibrant, everunfolding tapestry of the American story.
MOON RIVER & ME
Henry Mancini Celebration
"Monica Mancini is…the glamorous vocal equivalent to diamonds flashing." – New York Times
We honor Henry Mancini’s mastery with a concert celebration of his film scores and beloved standards During his 40-year career, Mancini became a household name and won 4 Oscars, 20 GRAMMYs® (including the first Album of the Year), a Golden Globe, and a posthumous GRAMMY® Lifetime Achievement Award. Accompanied by vocals and film montages, this tribute features works ranging from The Pink Panther Theme to Moon River, as well as favorites such Charade and The Shadow of Your Smile
It’s a true family affair starring his daughter and double GRAMMY® nominee, vocalist Monica Mancini, and son-in-law, Gregg Field (winner of 8 GRAMMYs® and Latin GRAMMY® “Producer of the Year”) on drums and producing the show
In 2024, CBS broadcast behind-the-scenes documentaries about new Mancini recordings featuring John Williams, Herbie Hancock, Arturo Sandoval, and Quincy Jones.
SPENCER DAY
Pop Jazz Singer/Songwriter
"Cool jazz sensibilities, cleverly crafted tales" - The Washington Post
Spencer Day, the #1 Billboard charting pop/jazz singer and songwriter, has headlined venues from Birdland and Lincoln Center to the Hollywood Bowl and London’s West End Day is widely acclaimed for creating witty and sophisticated pop songs in the tradition of classic jazz American writers
Known for his unique sense of humor and distinctive original songs, Spencer has been called “prodigiously talented” by The Village Voice, “Compelling” by Time Out NY, and “Brilliant” by The San Francisco Chronicle Frequent collaborators include Post Modern Jukebox, and GRAMMY®nominated artists such as Dave Koz and Jane Monheit
Orchestral Programs Include:
Broadway by Day*
A Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald*
A Tribute to Frank Sinatra*
La Frontera (for chamber ensemble)
*Complete orchestration for 18-piece big-band
JUDY COLLINS:
WILDFLOWERS TOUR
Folk Singer Icon
“Collins has earned that ‘legend’ distinction as much by interpreting and inspiring songs as she has by writing or singing them…” – Edmonton Journal
With an impressive career spanning over fifty years, legendary singer/songwriter Judy Collins has thrilled audiences worldwide with her unique blend of interpretative folk songs and contemporary themes Her stunning rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” from her landmark 1967 album, Wildflowers, has been entered into the GRAMMY® Hall of Fame
This transcendent artist takes audiences through gorgeous renditions of standards from the American Songbook, as well as some of the most beloved songs from her catalogue of more than 50 releases accompanied by brand new arrangements for symphony Her beloved Wildflowers orchestral program includes several original pieces from her 2022 album Spellbound (with all songs written by Judy and nominated for a 2023 GRAMMY®).
Judy Collins is represented in partnership with Fleming Artists
TERRY BARBER
Classical/Crossover Countertenor
“ ... performances of great vitality and verve” - LA Times
With an extraordinarily broad vocal range and natural fluency in many musical styles, rare countertenor Terry Barber has been featured on some of the world’s most storied stages and has worked with many of the music industry’s most prestigious figures As a past member of the GRAMMY® winning group Chanticleer, his voice can be heard on every major record label with a range of artists from Madonna to the London and New York Philharmonics.
Terry's programs include a broad range of repertoire, and he is committed to making his performances simultaneously accessible, enjoyable, and inspirational
Orchestral Programs Include:
Classical for Everyone
The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber
The Christmas Presence
EleMenTrio: “A Modern 3 Tenors”
SIUDY GARRIDO FLAMENCO PRESENTS:
AMOR BRUJO
Flamenco/Dance Theatre
“The new introduction included Garrido’s solo dance as a widow in black in ecstatic mourning. It was mesmerizing…” - LA Times
Siudy Garrido Flamenco reimagines and expands upon the original masterpiece by Manuel de Falla, Amor Brujo (“Love, the Magician”), which premiered in 1915 and again with additional orchestration in 1925. It tells the story of Candelas, a young widowed gypsy tormented by the specter of her late husband, and her struggle to adapt to life without him
With her established brand of expert fusion of the timeless and the contemporary, Artistic Director and Choreographer Siudy Garrido tells this dramatic story of spells and sorcery from the perspective of flamenco, in which the voice of the traditional mezzo-soprano singer is substituted with gorgeous and moving Flamenco singing Originally commissioned by the Los Angeles Philharmonic, it premiered at Walt Disney Concert Hall with four sold-out performances and has since been staged alongside many prestigious Philharmonic orchestras on famed stages, including Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl
Two versions are available: 45 minutes and 75 minutes
A FUEGO LENTO
A Latin American Celebration
“Latin exuberance, European refinement and great energy…” San Francisco Sentinel, USA
A Fuego Lento is a new collaboration between two brilliant Latin American pianists and a multi-genre arranger. With the goal of adapting the classical piano music concert to the vibrant, colorful musical traditions of Latin America, this collective aims to pull together audiences with music that will celebrate life and inspire reflection
Pianists Vanessa Perez and Latin GRAMMY® winner Kristhyan Benitez join forces with music arranger Stephen Buck to fuse the virtuosic and expressive tradition of classical piano with the artistry and reach of popular and folk styles Vanessa recently collaborated with Bill Murray on both the concert tour and film version of Beyond Worlds: The Cradle of Civilization, Kristhyan won the 2021 Latin GRAMMY® for Best Classical Music Album, and Stephen is the man behind some of the most innovative, entertaining, and stimulating concert experiences today
Learn more about Vanessa Perez on page 29
T A N G O R I U M
A TANGO-FUSION SHOW for SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, solo CLARINET & ACCORDIAN, and VIDEO PROJECTIONS
"[Tangorium is] one of the best set of pops charts I've seen."
- Joseph Johnson, principal cello of Santa Fe Opera and Toronto Symphony Orchestra
Created and eloquently performed and narrated by internationally-acclaimed musical duo, Bridge & Wolak, TANGORIUM portrays stories of Tango through diverse cultural contexts that created its voice. This multimedia show for full orchestra + clarinet and accordion soloists pays homage to intimate Tango classics of the 1930s through Piazzolla's Tango Nuevo, to epic symphonic-tangos that uniquely fuse the music of grandmasters like Bach & Beethoven with modern musical genres such as French Cabaret, Rock, Tango Club, and even Heavy Metal These steamy musical collisions are expressed in the emotionally provocative and romantic language of Tango, enhanced with on-screen films, animations, and pre-recorded shadow puppetry One critic remarks, "Attending felt like being present at one of the forefronts of world culture...with the benefit of a medium and mood that was inviting and moodlifting rather than alienating or cerebral "
BOOK TANGORIUM NOW!
NEW PROJECTS BY CLARICE ASSAD
A powerful communicator renowned for her musical scope and versatility, Brazilian-American Clarice Assad is a significant artistic voice in the classical, world, pop, and jazz genres. The GRAMMY® nominated composer, celebrated pianist, inventive vocalist and educator is acclaimed for her evocative colors, rich textures, and diverse stylistic range.
NOW PERFORMING IN FIVE NEW ORCHESTRAL PROJECTS INCLUDING:
PLAY!
Spirited New Concerto With Third Coast Percussion
Clarice Assad and GRAMMY® winning Third Coast Percussion team up to present a brand new concerto in 3 movements for percussion quartet, vocalist, and symphonic orchestra, incorporating narration, theatrical elements, sound effects, and foley. The piece includes a huge array of sounds and colors and is meant to invoke all the meanings of the word “Play ” From embracing unique visions that lead to magical encounters with kindred spirits to the journey of self-discovery, urging us to embrace inner brilliance and shine in the world, “Play” has always meant exploring new worlds and finding awe in the little things This work seeks connections through playful art, transcending differences and worries and uniting us in a harmonious symphony of life.
VOXTOPIA
Multi-Cultural Full Evening Length POPS Concert
VOXtopia is a groundbreaking concert featuring a symphonic orchestra and three exceptional singers from diverse musical traditions
In addition to Clarice Assad, artists include Varijashree Venugopal, renowned master of classical Indian music whose enchanting voice and virtuosic mastery have captivated audiences worldwide, and Chistylez Bacon, a leading figure in the hip-hop and beatbox scene from Washington, DC, with unparalleled vocal percussion skills and dynamic stage presence
This collaboration creates a well-rounded and unique fusion of sounds, seamlessly blending Brazilian rhythms, tango, jazz, Indian classical music, hip-hop, and beatbox The result is a musical alchemy that transcends boundaries and celebrates the universal language of music
The Evolution of AI Thought-Provoking Concerto
For Chamber Orchestra & Performer on electronic devices acting as a hybrid human AI machine inside a musical experiment, this contemporary musical piece explores the relationship between human artistry and artificial intelligence The four-movement work follows the journey of the human-AI hybrid being as it reboots, collects data, learns, and creates music Through each movement, the “hybrid machine” awakens, engages in a dynamic dialogue with the orchestra, merging technology and human expression, and absorbs and adapts Western compositions The finale concludes as the hybrid composes music in real-time, venturing into uncharted territory before it experiences an unexpected glitch, leaving its fate uncertain The piece questions the boundaries of creativity and the implications of human-AI collaboration through the metaphor of the evolving machine
FLOW
Emotion-Filled Piano Concerto
A suite for piano and orchestra in 3 movements, Flow is a musical journey through the symbolic currents of emotions, and explores themes of change, resilience, and the passage of time. All the movements connect seamlessly, each representing a different dynamic ebb and flow of emotions and experiences. From a sense of urgency to a moment of introspection and reflection, to bursts of renewed energy, this work affirms the idea that even in the face of challenges, the capacity to adapt and emerge stronger exists
RIGGED Tech Focused Concerto
SEEKING CO-COMMISSIONERS
A composition for orchestra and one performer on piano, voice, and electronic instruments, "RIGGED" aims to explore the complex interplay between classical and modern musical elements to create a unique sonic landscape blending the familiar with the transformative The title 'RIGGED' is a play on words, hinting at both the integration of technology in the compositional process and the potential for manipulation and control within the musical narrative Featuring an array of diverse instruments, this piece showcases the vast potential for expression and experimentation, inviting the listener to consider the implications of technology's increasing role in the creative process
ALL ABOVE WORKS WRITTEN BY AND FEATURING CLARICE ASSAD
WARNER BROS. PRESENTS:
MARCH OF THE PENGUINS HERCULES VS VAMPIRES
Film with Live Orchestra
“A delightful, wholesome experience for the family ” - Washington Post
Oscar-winner for Best Documentary in 2005 and the secondhighest grossing documentary of all time, this beloved documentary with beautiful, sweeping music offers a familyfriendly experience In this production, the film screening is accompanied by a live orchestra conducted by Maestro Jeffrey Schindler, conductor of the original movie soundtrack and one of the most prolific music directors in Hollywood Orchestrations are available for either full or reduced symphonic orchestra. 2025 will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the film’s release!
“The audience was riveted to their seats. The power of the live music with the classic film was hypnotic.” - Rob Tomaro, Cashbox Canada
This is the ultimate audience experience for a truly iconic film and is a popular addition to any season, particularly Halloween programming The 1931 cinematic masterpiece, Frankenstein, was originally released without a musical score, thus inspiring prolific composer/conductor Michael Shapiro to fill the void by creating an original soundtrack 70 years later. In this production, Shapiro’s lush and atmospheric 70-minute score is performed live under the film with various alternative instrumentation
Currently, the score is available for Symphony Orchestra (full), Chamber Orchestra (15 players), Wind Ensemble (9 players), and Operatic Ensemble (in any instrumental configuration with the addition of 5 SATBB solo voices or choir)
Full Orchestra Instrumentation:
26 players total: 8 Winds, 9 Brass, 5 Strings, 1 Timp, 2 Percussion, 1 Piano
Film with Live Orchestra & Voices
“The score was rich in harmony, clever in melodic line, and especially brilliant in orchestration” - Classical Voice of North Carolina
Fresh and full of fun, an atmospheric new operatic score by composer Patrick Morganelli provides the perfect accompaniment to Italian filmmaker Mario Bava's gorgeously gaudy world of the 1961 film "Hercules in the Haunted World " Combining mid-century pop culture and opera while synchronizing live music with film, Hercules vs Vampires allows the actors projected on the silver screen to sound like opera singers for one night The production has been staged with the Los Angeles Opera, Nashville Opera, Arizona Opera and the North Carolina Opera.
Suggested Instrumentation:
Nine singers and mid-sized orchestra of 26 players Full orchestra instrumentation also available
DANIEL HO
Hawaiian Multi-Instrumentalist
“One of the undisputed masters of the instrument” - Ukulele Magazine
Daniel Ho’s simple philosophy of presenting music with sincerity and artistry has earned him six consecutive GRAMMY® Awards, number-one albums on national airplay charts, and top-ten albums on Billboard
Showcasing his prodigious skill on ukulele, slack key, and piano, Daniel has performed his original compositions with several orchestras as a soloist and as a trio along with the GRAMMY® nominated Hālau Hula Keali'i o Nālani, a revered dance-and-vocals group known for its commitment to ancient hula and Hawaiian culture
Highlighted Works Include:
Haiku, solo ukulele with orchestra Waimea Bay, piano with orchestra When You Grow Up, piano lullaby with orchestra Soaring on Dreams, piano, cello, and drums with orchestra
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN
Classical & Jazz Pianist
“...dazzling technique and rhythmic fire, LópezGavilán is something to behold.” - The Seattle Times
Read more about Aldo's orchestral work with his brother on page 32
LARA DOWNES
Classical Pianist
"Expect glamour with substance” - WQXR, New York's Classical Music Station
American pianist Lara Downes is an iconoclastic trailblazer whose dynamic work as a sought-after performer, Billboard Chart-topping recording artist, NPR personality, curator, and arts advocate positions her as a cultural visionary on the national scene. Called “an explorer whose imagination is fired by bringing notice to the underrepresented and forgotten” (The Log Journal), Lara seeks inspiration from the legacies of history and collective memory to create a series of acclaimed performances that serve as gathering spaces for her listeners to find common ground and shared experience Downes’ recent and upcoming onstage adventures include guest appearances with the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Boston Pops, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Louisville Orchestra, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Highlighted Works Include:
Florence Price: Concerto in One Movement
George Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue
Billy Strayhorn/Chris Walden: A Lovesome Thing:
Billy Strayhorn Suite
Duke Ellington: New World A-Comin’
Aldo López-Gavilán: Ocean to Cross (for Lara)
Margaret Bonds: Credo
VANESSA PEREZ
Classical Pianist
"a kind of wild intensity that was often breathtaking " - Washington Post
A frequent collaborator with violinist Daniel Hope, cellist Jan Vogler, and actor Bill Murray, and recently featured on the show Mozart In The Jungle, Perez is widely regarded for her bold, passionate displays of technical virtuosity and keen sensitivity A product of the energized musical culture of Venezuela, Ms Perez “is not to be taken lightly” (The Washington Post).
Performance highlights include the Gilmore International Keyboard Festival, a collaboration with the Lucerne Symphony Orchestra under John Axelrod in Germany, concerts with the Orquesta de la Juventud Simon Bolivar under Gustavo Dudamel in Caracas, working with Conductor Nikolaj Znaider and the Teresa Carreño Youth Orchestra, the Casals Festival, and the Chopin Festival in Mallorca
Highlighted Works Include:
Ravel: Piano Concerto in G
Prokofiev: Concerto No 3
Mozart: D minor No 20
Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No 2
Falla: Nights in the Gardens of Spain
The following double piano concerti: Poulenc, Mozart (No 10 K365), and Latin Rhapsody
Read more about Vanessa's orchestral duo program, A Fuego Lento, on page 23
“Lara and I hit it off instantly! She is a thoughtful artist and a wonderful collaborator Most importantly, she is a terrific human being "
Maestro Thomas Wilkins
KELLY HALL-TOMPKINS Classical Violinist
Recognized as a 2017 “New Yorker of the Year“ by the New York Times and frequent collaborator with conductor Leonard Slatkin, Kelly Hall-Tompkins has appeared with many of America’s most prestigious orchestras and was the “Fiddler” violin soloist for a 13-month run on Broadway in Fiddler on the Roof
Also acclaimed as “the versatile violinist who makes the music come alive” (New York Times), with “searing intensity” (American Record Guide), Kelly is trailblazing an innovative, creative and entrepreneurial career as a soloist and chamber musician
Highlighted Works Include:
Wynton Marsalis: Violin Concerto in D Jeff Beal: Body in Motion
The Fiddler Expanding Tradition: Orchestrated selections from Fiddler on the Roof
Florence Price: Violin Concerto No. 2
Beethoven: Violin Concerto
Barber: Violin Concerto
Recent & Upcoming Collaborators:
St Louis Symphony (World Premiere of the Jeff Beal Violin Concerto); Madison Symphony Orchestra; LA Chamber Orchestra, Lucerne Festival, Baltimore Symphony, Rhode Island Philharmonic; California Symphony; Symphony Tacoma; Memphis Symphony; Oakland Symphony; Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (Music of Bruce Adolphe); Allentown Symphony; Orlando Philharmonic; Western Piedmont Symphony (Bruch Violin Concerto)
“A tonal mastery, a technical command, and a strength of personality.”
– Fanfare Magazine
LAURIE RUBIN
Mezzo -Soprano
“a young mezzo-soprano whose voice is darkly complex and mysteriously soulful” - Los Angeles Times
Having performed around the world in recital, opera, and with orchestra, Laurie Rubin’s mezzo-soprano voice, spirit and story captivate audiences like no other. Born blind, Rubin has concertized with orchestras and opera companies worldwide to tremendous acclaim, including high praise from the New York Times chief classical music critic Anthony Tommasini, who wrote that she possesses “compelling artistry,” “communicative power,” and a voice that displays “earthy, rich, and poignant qualities ”
Highlighted Works Include:
Lisa Bielawa: Centuries in the Hours (for conductorless Chamber Orchestra, written for Rubin)
Bruce Adolphe: Do You Dream in Color? (for Chamber Orchestra, written for Rubin)
Haydn: Scena di Berenice
Mozart: Don Giovanni
Poulenc: La Voix Humaine (partially staged)
The Girl I Am (Autobiographical pops program featuring arrangements by Jenny Taira with music from Dear Evan Hansen, Into the Woods, The Greatest Showman, Carousel, and more)
ARIADNE GREIF
" one of the most searingly painful and revealing operatic performances of recent times..." - NY Times
Greif, praised for her "luminous, expressive voice" (NYTimes), her "elastic and round high notes" (classiqueinfo), and her "mesmerizing stage presence" (East Anglian Daily Times), began her opera career as a ‘boy’ soprano in the Los Angeles area and at the LA Opera, eventually making an adult debut singing Lutoslawski’s Chantefleurs et Chantefables with the American Symphony Orchestra She starred in roles ranging from Therese/Tirésias in Poulenc’s Les Mamelles de Tirésias, singing a “thoroughly commanding and effortless” run at the Aldeburgh Festival, a "sassy" Adina in The Elixir of Love with the Orlando Philharmonic, to Sappho in Atthis by Georg Friedrich Haas, for which the New York Times noted her “searing top notes” and “dusky depths,” calling it “a solo highwire act for Ms Greif a vehicle for Ms Greif’s raw, no-holdsbarred performance ”
Her mesmerizing voice has her gracing halls across the globe, appearing alongside The Knights, Metropolis Ensemble, Gabriel Kahane, Mélange, and others
Highlighted Works Include (soprano solo):
Mahler: Symphony No. 4
Beethoven: Symphony No 9
Mahler: Des Knaben Wunderhorn
Britten: Les Illuminations
Berg: Sieben Frühe Lieder
Alma Mahler all songs
Mozart: Requiem
THE GAVILÁN BROTHERS
Electrifying Cuban Duo
“Aldo is a skilled jazz improviser with an impressive technique while Ilmar’s soaring violin rose above the fray with memorable melodies...”
- The Boston Musical Intelligencer
Aldo López-Gavilán – an internationally renowned jazz and classical pianist/composer – and his brother Ilmar Gavilán – GRAMMY® winning violinist and first violinist of New York’s famed Harlem Quartet – are performing together as The Gavilán Brothers and are taking the U S by storm after being featured in the PBS documentary Los Hermanos / The Brothers, which tells the story of their separate but parallel lives as musicians.
Past orchestral appearances include Chautauqua Festival Orchestra, Orquesta Sinfónica Nacional (Cuba), Orquesta de Cámara Música Eterna, Orquesta de Cámara de la Habana, Orquesta Juvenil Amadeo Roldán, and New England Conservatory’s Youth Philharmonic Orchestra
want to awaken your senses and fire up your imagination!
FOR A
AND CULTURE IN THE HEART OF THE UTAH MOUNTAINS. EXPERIENCE LIVE PERFORMANCES, ENGAGING WORKSHOPS, AND A COMMUNITY OF CREATIVES AMID NATURE.
Eden Festival isn’t just about performance. It’s about possibility Not a retreat from the world, but a charge forward. Art that disrupts. Culture that builds. Shaping the society that comes next.
Eden Festival is a new kind of festival: it’s a cultural catalyst located in Powder Mountain between the cities of Eden and Paradise, set in the breathtaking Utah mountains, and branching out with satellite events across Northern and Southern Utah
We present world-class, multi-genre performances, nurture the next generation of visionary artist-leaders, and commission daring new works that spark curiosity, creativity, and fresh ways of thinking about the world’s biggest challenges
And now, we’re building something even bigger: a stateof-the-art campus that blends cutting-edge production technology with sustainable design It will be a hub for artistic innovation, collaboration, and community
PROJECT TRIO Chamber Ensemble
PROJECT Trio is a passionate, high energy chamber music ensemble comprised of three virtuosic composer/performers from Brooklyn, New York. Blending their classical training with an eclectic taste in musical styles, the group has made an impact on audiences of all ages.
The Wall Street Journal hailed the Trio for their “wide appeal, subversive humor, and first-rate playing.” The New York Times has called beatboxing flutist, Greg Pattillo “the best in the world at what he does."
PROJECT Trio has performed with several orchestras around the country, including the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, and many more.
Highlighted Works Include:
Scatter for PROJECT Trio and Orchestra by Adam Schoenberg Upcoming New Work for PROJECT Trio by Quinn Mason
PROJECT Trio repertoire, including original music and arrangements Education Concerts/Family Pops program
“The level of virtuosity is high and the players always come through”
- Donald Rosenburg, The Plain Dealer
ALDO LÓPEZ-GAVILÁN
Composer / Pianist
“López-Gavilán is not only a formidable virtuoso, but also exceeds in works that require extraordinary color and fascinating sounds " - The London Times
Aldo's authentic voice has a genre-defying sound rooted in European classical traditions, Latin jazz, and Afro-Cuban rhythms Drawing from a range of colors associated with Schumann and Ravel's work, Aldo's compositions weave a layered tapestry described as magical, optimistic, and at its core, deeply soulful
His work has been played by orchestras such as the Classical Tahoe Festival Orchestra, Boulder Philharmonic, Orquesta Sinfónica de Caldas, Festival Napa Orchestra, West Michigan Symphony (2021), Shreveport Orchestra (2022), Puget Sound Symphony Orchestra (2022) and soon with the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, Alexandria Symphony Orchestra and Lancaster Symphony Orchestra
Highlighted Works Include:
Oceans to Cross, piano concerto for pianist Lara Downes - currently seeking additional cocommissioning orchestras
Emporium, Aldo's first piano concerto Concertino for clarinet and orchestra
Learn more about Aldo as a soloist on page 28
CLARICE
ASSAD
Composer / Performer
"Clarice Assad is quite simply a phenomenon who has streaked across the world’s musical landscape like one of those comets that appears just once in a lifetime " – Latin Jazz Network
A powerful communicator renowned for her musical scope and versatility, Brazilian-American Clarice Assad is a significant artistic voice in the classical, world, pop, and jazz genres The GRAMMY® nominated composer, celebrated pianist, inventive vocalist and educator is acclaimed for her evocative colors, rich textures, and diverse stylistic range
The prolific composer has more than 70 works to her credit, including numerous commissions for Carnegie Hall, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, the Boston Youth Orchestra, Chicago Sinfonietta, San Jose Chamber Orchestra, the Bravo! Vail Music Festival, and the La Jolla Music Festival, among others. Her compositions have been recorded by some of the most prominent names in classical music, including percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, violinist Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, and oboist Liang Wang Assad’s music has been performed by the London Philharmonic, Tokyo Symphony, Queensland Symphony, and the Orquestra Sinfônica de São Paulo She has served as a composer-in-residence for the Albany Symphony, the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music, New Century Chamber Orchestra, and the Boston Landmarks Orchestra
CADENZA ROSTER - COMPOSERS
NOLAN GASSER
Composer
“Gasser’s work definitively accomplished everything it set out to do, and then some: the music was mesmerizing.” – Oakland Tribune
Dr. Nolan Gasser is a critically acclaimed composer, pianist, and musicologist – most notably, the architect of Pandora Radio’s Music Genome Project and the company’s chief musicologist from its founding in 1999
With a Ph.D. in Musicology from Stanford University, his original compositions have been performed in such prestigious venues as Carnegie Hall, David Geffen Hall (Lincoln Center), the Kennedy Center, La Salle Pleyel (Paris), and the Rose Bowl (Pasadena), among many others Classical compositions include an opera, The Secret Garden, commissioned by San Francisco Opera; The World Concerto for cello, erhu, oud, sarangi, and orchestra, premiered by Maya Beiser; Cosmic Reflection for orchestra and narrator, premiered at the Kennedy Center and recorded by the Baltimore Symphony; and an oratorio, Repast: An Oratorio on the Life of Booker Wright, premiered at Carnegie Hall
Learn more about Cosmic Reflection on page 19
Composer/Conductor
"His music rises like rays of sun to come alive with bright colors...[and] flows easily into a...melancholy reverie"
– Herald-Tribune on Sarasota Orchestra performance
Quinn Mason (b 1996) is a composer and conductor based in Dallas, TX, and is Artist-in-Residence of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra He recently served as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s Classical Roots Composer-in-Residence - the youngest composer to fill that role - and as the inaugural composer-in-residence for the Austin radio station KMFA
As a composer, his music has been or will be performed and commissioned by over 100 renowned orchestras including, among many others: the National Symphony Orchestra; the San Francisco, Detroit, Seattle, Utah, Fort Worth, Dallas, Vermont, Memphis, Richmond, Amarillo, Kansas City, Knoxville, and New Haven Symphonies; the Minnesota and Sarasota Orchestras; the Rochester, Buffalo, and South Carolina Philharmonics; Italy’s Orchestra Sinfonica Nazionale della RAI; and the UK’s Sheffield Philharmonic
As a conductor, Quinn studied with Marin Alsop, James Ross, Miguel Harth-Bedoya, and others. He has guest conducted with orchestras around the country, including: the National, Hartford, and West Virginia Symphony Orchestras; Houston Ballet Orchestra; and the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles
Highlighted Works Include: A Joyous Trilogy Toast of the Town Inner City Rhapsody
Learn about a commissioning opportunity on page 13
JOSÉ LUIS DOMÍNGUEZ
Composer/Conductor
“José Luis Dominguez in an indisputably exalted situation ” - Las Últimas Noticias
Chilean composer/conductor José Luis Domínguez is a prominent talent on international orchestral and operatic stages His conducting is described as “unrivaled, magnificent and with exemplary gesturing” (El Mercurio)
Recent commissions as a composer include the ballet La Casa de Los Espíritus (The House of Spirits), which premiered with the Orquesta Filarmónica de Santiago and was hailed an “absolute triumph ” Other commissions include a Violin Concerto for Jason DePue, Oboe Concerto for Jorge Pinzón with the Orquesta Filarmónica de Bogotá in Colombia, and upcoming violin, harp, cello concerti.
Recent and upcoming appearances have included the Houston Symphony, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, Orquesta Filarmónica de Buenos Aires, the Orquesta Sinfónica de Chile, the Orquesta Sinfónica Universidad de La Serena, the Orquesta de Cámera de Chile, and the world-renowned Semanas Musicales de Frutillar held in Frutillar, Chile, at Teatro del Lago
José Luis is Music Director of Bucks County Symphony Orchestra and Temple University-Boyer College of Music, and Artistic Director of New Jersey Youth Symphony Orchestra.
GRANT GERSHON
“In the pit, Grant Gershon could do no wrong.”
- Opera Today
Grant Gershon has led performances at San Francisco Opera, Los Angeles Opera, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, National Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, Wolftrap, and beyond. He currently serves as Artistic Director of the Los Angeles Master Chorale, and as Resident Conductor of the Los Angeles Opera. Composer John Adams says, “Grant Gershon is one of those rarities we call the complete musician My respect for his musicality - for his conducting, his extraordinary musical intuition and his formidable ear - knows no bounds ”
ELLIOTT FORREST
"I let the music and visuals waft over me and got completely lost in the beauty.” - Long Beach Symphony Patron
Elliott Forrest custom tailors the concert experience - from high-concept projects to pops concerts - through the design and imaginative use of integrative multimedia. Forrest has been a partner for directed programs at venues that include the Los Angeles Philharmonic, The Philadelphia Orchestra, The Houston Symphony, the New York Philharmonic, The Atlanta Symphony, The Pasadena Pops and the Little Orchestra Society in New York
JEFFREY SCHINDLER Conductor
“Conductor Jeff Schindler is nothing short of ideal ” - Josep Pascual, Spanish critic
Jeffrey Schindler enjoys a dynamic international career that takes him from concert podiums around the world, to the scoring stages of Hollywood, to the recording studios of London Jeffrey’s award-winning artistry melds imaginative and illuminating performances with expressive and powerful technique, impeccable scholarship, and vibrant energy. He has conducted nearly 150 performances of Harry Potter, Star Wars, Amadeus, and many other film with live orchestra productions in partnership with CineConcerts, AVEX, and others.
Learn about Jeffrey conducting the live film with orchestra score, March of the Penguins, on page 27
ELKHANAH
PULITZER
Director
“Powerfully impressive... fearless in (her) dramatic imagination.” – San Francisco Chronicle
Known for her bold, nuanced, and innovative stage direction, Elkhanah is an esteemed director of opera and theatre Exploring the intersection between music and theatre through innovation and hybridized forms, she has directed projects with the LA Phil, New York Phil, Mostly Mozart Festival at Lincoln Center, LA Opera, SF Opera, SF Symphony, The Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona, Boston Lyric Opera, West Edge Opera, and many others
