Composition Weekend Concert: W4RP

W4RP, formerly the Warp Trio, rounds out our Composition Weekend with For the Birds, a special performance at our DC Campus: NW.

Why is mankind so obsessed with birds? From Renaissance madrigals to Lynyrd Skynyrd Rock anthems, composers just can’t seem to shake this avian fixation, and we are here for it. This program juxtaposes the great Charles Mingus with the massive bird aficionado Olivier Messiaen. W4RP explores and re-imagines their bird-born compositions before launching into the zany original Koo-Koo Sonata.

During the concert, we will recognize the retirement of long-time composition faculty member Sis McKay with a performance of her composition River of Wonder and Sorrow featuring Vasily Popov (cello) and Ralitza Patcheva (piano).

W4RP

Described in Free Times as “A talented group that exemplifies the genre-obliterating direction of contemporary classical music,” W4RP is NOT your typical quartet. Lying at the intersection of a chamber music ensemble, rock band, and art project, W4RP is pushing the boundaries of music consumption through inter-disciplinary collaborations and eclectic programming that includes electrifying original material, dynamic interpretations of popular music, improvisation, and unique takes on classical repertoire. Whether performing in a nightclub, gallery space, or concert hall, W4RP is transporting audiences to the next level of concert experience.

Mikael Darmanie, piano
Ju-Young Lee, cello
Josh Henderson, violin
Rick Martinez, percussion

Program

Up – W4RP

Vocalise Etude – Olivier Messiaen

Selections from Catalogue d’oiseaux – Olivier Messiaen

A Bird Fell – W4RP

Re-incarnation of a Lovebird – Charles Mingus/W4RP

Koo Koo Sonata – W4RP
Movement i
Movement ii
Movement iii