Henryk Górecki’s iconic third symphony, often called “Symphony of Sorrowful Songs,” made a huge impact on listeners in the early 1990s and was a musical touchstone for virtuoso saxophonist and Ann Arbor native Colin Stetson.
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The work’s three movements centered around three laments, each focused in some way to child being taken away from a mother. Celebrated for the way he “demolishes clichés to unleash fresh, unexpected energies,” (Pitchfork) Stetson takes on the mammoth task of reimagining Górecki’s symphony for an expansive and contemporary sonic palate. Sorrow, his inspired new interpretation of the heartbreaking work, is “timeless and of the moment.” (PopMatters) It draws on a uniquely constructed 12-member ensemble, employing electric guitars, synthesizers, drums, strings, woodwinds, and soprano to create transformative extensions of the emotional core of the piece.
ARTIST WEBSITE http://www.colinstetson.com/sorrow
Colin Stetson, alto and bass saxophones, contrabass clarinet
Megan Stetson, mezzo-soprano
Amanda Lo, violin
Caleb Burhans, violin
Rebecca Foon, cello
Dan Bennett, tenor and baritone saxophones, clarinet
Andrew Bishop, tenor saxophone, clarinet
Grey Mcmurray, guitars
Ryan Ferreira, guitars
Justin Walter, keyboards, EVI
Shahzad Ismaily, synthesizers
Greg Fox, drums
VENUE
603 East Liberty Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
RECOMMENDED FOR
Ages 14+