OPUS 21

Comprised of virtuoso performers from diverse musical circles, Opus 21 is capable of performing works by composers from many different genres. Its programming has ranged from the contemporary classical works of William Bolcom, John Harbison, and Steve Reich, to the jazz compositions of Dave Brubeck and Fred Hersch; from the art rock music of Frank Zappa to a collaborative performance with legendary Motown pianist Joe Hunter. Opus 21 is committed to the creation and premiering of new works by both established and emerging American composers. Over the past three seasons, the group's ambitious commissioning program has led to nineteen new compositions by composers from a wide variety of musical backgrounds. Those who have written for the ensemble include classical composers Eve Beglarian,  

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Martin Bresnick, Chen Yi, Michael Daugherty, Kamran Ince, Tania Leon, and Daniel Bernard Roumain; eight-time Grammy Award-winning jazz legend Paquito D'Rivera; world renowned jazz pianist Fred Hersch; Motown Records' original bandleader and member of the Funk Brothers, Joe Hunter; as well as Opus 21 musicians Tom Knific and Trent Kynaston, and ensemble artistic director Richard Adams. Recent guest artists have included world music percussionist Jamey Haddad, who tours with Paul Simon; new music flute virtuoso Patti Monson; and guitar legend Gene Bertoncini. The goal of Opus 21 is to create a collaborative venue for performers, composers, and audiences whose interests extend beyond a single type of music. Its programs seek to increase public awareness and understanding of art music in the twenty-first century, introduce the public to works it might not otherwise hear, and build bridges between audiences of different musical backgrounds. The group also maintains an open call for scores in order to be able to present the music of both established and emerging composers. In all its activities, Opus 21 is committed to the proposition that great music is without boundaries.