John Cage had conceived a project titled “Noh-opera: Or the Complete Musical Works of Marcel Duchamp,” which remained unrealized. Influenced by Marcel Duchamp’s “Manual of Instructions” for the infamous peephole artwork “Étant donnés,” The composer had envisioned a significant premiere in Japan. However, it never came to be. On Dec. 7, 2023, Japan Society will present “Cage Shock,” a concert {…}
It’s easier to appreciate Robert Ashley’s 1983 “Perfect Lives” by simply accepting it on faith as an “opera” rather than try to cram it into the narrow definition established for the genre. There’s quite a bit of text, some singing, a story with characters, and perhaps too much of a visual spectacle. Purists with preconceived notions about how exactly these {…}
International Contemporary Ensemble has announced its 2023-24 Season. For this article, only vocal performances are listed. In October, the Ensemble will present a George Lewis Portrait Concert. On the program is the U.S. premiere of Lewis’ “H. narrans” (2020), a work for voice and chamber ensemble. Performance Date: Oct. 5, 2023 A performance of John Cage’s series of compositions titled “Ryoanji,” {…}