The 2024 Newport Classical Music Festival is set to present the world premiere of Brazilian-American powerhouse composer Clarice Assad’s “Whispers from the Pirate Queen” performed by PUBLIQuartet and mezzo-soprano Renée Rapier on Saturday, July 20, 2024 at The Breakers.

The concert also features PUBLIQuartet’s “What is American,” the ensemble’s improvisation on Antonin Dvořák’s String Quartet No. 12 in F Major as well as contemporary works including Jessie Montgomery’s “Voodoo Dolls,” Fodé Lassana Diabaté’s “Sunjata’s Time,” Vijay Iyer’s “Dig the Say,” Duke Ellington’s “Come Sunday,” Julia Perry’s Prelude (arr. by Hamilton Berry), and PUBLIQuartet’s “MIND | THE | GAP: Wild Women.”

Regarding Assad’s new work, the composer said, “Through a series of mystical encounters and dreams, Grace O’Malley’s spirit reaches across time to guide, inspire, and empower Anne Hutchinson in her journey of courage and resilience. The story weaves together fact and fiction, history and fantasy to create a multi-layered narrative that speaks to the enduring power of female strength, solidarity, and legacy. As Grace O’Malley’s whispers echo through the ages, she symbolizes the unbreakable spirit of women who dare to challenge societal norms and fight for their convictions.”