Coming Together by Frederic Rzewski
Prepare to be moved by the transcendent power of "Coming Together" composed by Frederic Rzewski, a profound and evocative musical masterpiece.
This extraordinary composition draws its inspiration from the poignant words of two prisoners who were part of the historic riots at New York's Attica Prison in 1971. It weaves together the poetic and enigmatic letters of Sam Melville, a radical activist imprisoned for protest bombings, with the impassioned words of civil rights activist Richard X. Clarke. Melville, a leader of the riots, tragically lost his life during the upheaval. Clarke, upon his release, defiantly declared that Attica was not behind him, but rather, it lay ahead.
In "Coming Together," the weight of this profound subject matter finds expression through a beautiful bass line, expertly woven with the artistry of the accompanying instruments. The result is a composition that both captivates and challenges, delving into the depths of human experience and resilience.
Prepare to be entertained by a stellar lineup of performers. Local hero Jonny Marks, renowned for his extraordinary throat singing skills as a member of The All Seeing Hand, will grace the stage, showcasing his unparalleled vocal prowess. Joining him are the talented members of Orchestra Wellington, bringing their exceptional musicality to this stirring performance. Additionally, the event features other stalwarts of the vibrant local gigging scene, adding their unique energy and creativity to the mix.
Jonny Marks, voice
Rebecca Steel, flute
Patrick Hayes, clarinet & bass clarinet
Maia O'Connell, horn
Liam Furey, keyboard
Annabelle Thorpe, viola
Elliot Vaughan, viola
Simon Eastwood, bass
