Sonic Illinois: Illinois Modern Ensemble
“I can’t understand why people are frightened of new ideas. I’m frightened of the old ones.” – John Cage
Showcasing the works of American legend John Cage alongside the University of Illinois’ very own composition faculty, the Illinois Modern Ensemble presents a concert full of new and exciting ideas. With music by Erik Lund and Reynold Tharp, the ensemble is fortunate enough to have worked personally with internationally renowned composers who live right next door. The selection of works by University of Illinois faculty chosen for this concert (Memos by Lund and Cold Horizon by Tharp) highlights the diversity and innovation that the university’s School of Music members have to offer. The Jupiter String Quartet, the University of Illinois quartet-in-residence, joins the Illinois Modern Ensemble to perform Erik Lund’s Memos. Faculty, staff, and students from throughout the School of Music will join the performance of Terry Riley's In C to promote a spirit of inclusiveness and unity that brings all walks of life together through music.
Reynold Tharp: Cold Horizon
John Cage: Concert for Piano and Orchestra (with guest conductor Will Sugg)
Erik Lund: Memos (with guest ensemble Jupiter String Quartet)
Terry Riley: In C
The original program for this event was altered after the recent U.S. executive order on immigration led to the cancellation of performances by two guest artists, Aisha Orazbayeva and Joseph Houston. Read additional details regarding the cancellation >>
This performance will run approximately one hour with no intermission.
Sonic Illinois
Honoring the University of Illinois sesquicentennial anniversary in 2017, Krannert Center and the School of Music collaboratively explore the extraordinary diversity of today’s vital contemporary music scene—a revival of the spirit of the University of Illinois Festival of Contemporary Arts, which was a major cultural force in the mid-20th century. Sonic Illinois, a month-long celebration of new music, will celebrate innovative creators who challenge convention, forge new pathways, and expand the creative process. See featured performances.
