Music of Our Time'
New Music by area composers at Tusten Theatre Narrowsburg, N.Y. On Saturday, Nov. 1, at 7:30 p.m., the Delaware Valley Chamber Orchestra presents its 15th annual “Music of Our Time” concert at the Tusten Theatre, at 210 Bridge Street in Narrowsburg. This year’s concert celebrates the 60th birthdays of two highly accomplished composers, Thurman Barker of Jeffersonville, N.Y. and Sergio García-Marruz of Roscoe, N.Y. Both are writing compositions especially for this occasion. Thurman Barker, a well-known jazz drummer who teaches percussion and jazz at Bard College, will present his new composition “Memories of Things Past.” The piece combines classical notation with jazz elements, such as improvisation in flute and vibraphone. In the music, he cites his memories of great musical moments, putting them together into a new fabric. In this way, he is inspired by his own feelings and reactions in prior musical experiences, and this inspiration brings forth new work. In a different way, Sergio García-Marruz also reflects on his memories of previous musical experiences. In his composition “Estampas Cubanas,” García-Marruz draws upon his deep knowledge of Cuban rhythms, presenting classic patterns such as “clave” in both traditional and innovative ways. Written for the full Delaware Valley Chamber Orchestra, this striking new work is a delight of skillful orchestra. This year, Delaware Valley Chamber Orchestra welcomes string quartet Sweet Plantain as special guest artists. Sweet Plantain specializes in genre-blurring, original compositions and arrangements, as well as contemporary works by Latin American composers. First violinist Eddie Venegas’s composition for string quartet, “Danzon,” is a masterful combination of Latin rhythms, classical techniques, and improvisation. Improvisation also plays an important role in Carolyn Steinberg’s composition “The Jester and the Necklace” for violin and drumset, which will be played by Venegas and Chacho Ramirez. Don’t miss this lively and varied program of new music by some of our area’s many talented musicians. Tickets are $12 (DVAA and DVO members get $2 discount on advanced sales). For information, call 845-252-3136, for tickets call the box office at 845-252-7272. Tusten Theatre, managed by Delaware Valley Arts Alliance, is located at 210 Bridge Street, Narrowsburg, N.Y. and features an eight-month schedule of cultural programming including jazz, opera, performance art, folk music, and theatre. For more information, visit www.ArtsAllianceSite.org. If you go WHAT: Music of Our Time, a lively and varied program of new music by area musicians WHEN: Saturday, November 1, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Tusten Theatre, 210 Bridge St, Narrowsburg, NY 12764 COST: $12 ($2 discount on advance sales for DVAA and DVO members)