WEBmikey: Kronos Quartet / Sun Rings : 4 of 5

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Kronos Quartet / Sun Rings : 4 of 5
4.07.2005 6:45 PM \| Link	I think I heard my first Kronos Quartet recording back in the OU listening lab, and I was soon hooked on their amazing variety of work (I have about ten of their CDs now!). I saw them perform live once in Tulsa, and it was really impressive watching them play incredibly complex works with precision. I decided to go to this concert at the last minute, so of course, I got a fantastic third-row seat (the advantage of going alone!), and I'm so glad I did. Sun Rings is a fascinating multimedia experience, using projected images and video along with a ten movement work by minimalist composer Terry Riley. The composition was actually funded in part by NASA, since it was inspired by actual recordings of sounds from space (captured using plasma wave receivers on the Voyager spacecraft as well as other missions). The strings are accompanied by a large vocal chorus on some movements, and most movements also feature sound samples (such as mission radio communications and the actual plasma recordings) that can be triggered by the performers by waving their hands over sensors on their music stands! The entire performance was mesmerizing - it was such a fast 90 minutes (with no intermission). I was once again amazed at the precise talent of the Kronos Quartet, and I definitely hope they record this piece! Labels: arts


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