Strategies Against Architecture

In an exciting collaboration with Mount Royal Conservatory (MRC), the Juno award-winning Land’s End Ensemble is set to embark on their inaugural residency, promising an unforgettable experience for music aficionados and novices alike.

Scheduled for Saturday, May 4, “Strategies Against Architecture” will unveil a concert of new compositions, featuring a blend of seasoned professionals and budding talents from the MRC program. Spearheaded by Land’s End Ensemble’s virtuosic trio — Maria van der Sloot on violin, Beth Root Sandvoss on cello, and Susanne Ruberg-Gordon on piano — the event promises to transcend conventional boundaries of musical expression.

The concert lineup is a rich blend of sonic exploration, featuring a diverse array of compositions that defy conventional categorization. Among the highlights is Jared Miller’s "Leviathan," an electrifying fusion of chamber ensemble and electronics that pushes the boundaries of traditional instrumentation. Merlijn Twaalhoven’s "On Parole" promises to captivate audiences with its innovative use of spatialization effects, weaving a mesmerizing tapestry of sound through a collaboration between string quartet and student string players.

Adding to the allure of the evening is the premiere of "Creepie Crawlie" by Calgary composer Michael van der Sloot, an eagerly anticipated addition to the Canadian contemporary music scene. Additionally, audiences will have the privilege of experiencing the Canadian masterpiece "Strategies Against Architecture, Book 2" by Omar Daniel, featuring guest performers Akiko Tominaga on piano, and Kyle Eustace and Chris Sies on percussion.

The concert also features the trance-inducing cacophony of Terry Riley’s iconic "In C" and Dennis Nassar’s evocative "Caipora." The evening invites audiences to explore the depths of human emotion and imagination.

Prior to the concert, audiences will have the opportunity to engage in a Pre-Concert Chat at 6:30 p.m., followed by a Pre-Concert Performance at 7 p.m., setting the stage for an evening of musical discovery and enlightenment. 

With its ground-breaking repertoire and innovative approach to musical performance, the Land’s End Ensemble’s inaugural residency promises to leave an indelible mark on Calgary’s cultural landscape, forging new pathways for artistic expression and collaboration.

For lovers of contemporary music and enthusiasts of avant-garde experimentation, this concert is a not-to-be-missed event, offering a rare opportunity to witness the convergence of talent and creativity in a setting unlike any other. Join Land’s End Ensemble and MRC students on May 4 for an evening of musical exploration and discovery that will linger in the hearts and minds of audiences long after the final note has faded into silence.

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