Northwestern University's Bienen School of Music will host its sixth biennial New Music Conference from April 25-27 in Evanston, Illinois. The conference, organized by the Institute for New Music, draws a diverse group of composers, musicians, and scholars for workshops, discussions, and concerts.
Alex Mincek, director of the Institute for New Music, highlighted the conference's growth. "I think [this year’s] conference has become even more expansive and diverse in a number of different ways: aesthetically, demographically, technologically," said Mincek. He expressed excitement about the inclusion of the Symphonic Wind Ensemble in the conference. "I’m especially happy that our Symphonic Wind Ensemble will be a part of the conference for the first time," Mincek added.
The conference features various performances, all taking place on Northwestern's campus, with many sessions open to the public at no charge. Tickets for some events are available through the Bienen School Ticket Office.
The Symphonic Wind Ensemble will start the conference with a performance on April 25, featuring works by Björk and Mason Bates. The ensemble will be led by Robert Taylor and Sheldon Frazier.
Events on April 26 include guest presentations and a performance by the Bienen saxophone studio. Amsterdam-based composer Bec Plexus will discuss her work. Kirsten Speyer Carithers will give a keynote speech on music history.
The weekend will also feature a performance by the Contemporary Music Ensemble, accompanied by Bec Plexus and the International Contemporary Ensemble, including works by Anthony Braxton and George Lewis.
Highlighting the event on April 27, George Lewis, a renowned composer and musicologist, will present a discussion on his works. Additional performances throughout the day include the Arboretum Duo, various guest performances, and electroacoustic pieces.
The International Contemporary Ensemble will close the conference with a concert featuring new works by several composers. The ensemble, known for its innovation in contemporary music, will perform at the Pick-Staiger Concert Hall.