upcoming events
ready or not revisited | cambridge, ma
Ready or Not Revisited celebrates the groundbreaking visions of women, queer, trans, and nonbinary composers from the medieval period to the present day. This program builds on the concept of Palaver’s 2022 album Ready or Not, which “blew the tent flap open to embrace new contemporary classical fans” (Midwest Record) and left BBC Music Magazine “wanting more.” Repertoire includes wide-ranging selections by Jessie Montgomery, Hildegard von Bingen, inti figgis-vizueta, Tanner Porter, Sato Matsui, Leilehua Lanzilotti, Pétalo Seslar and Lili Boulanger. Ready or Not Revisited disrupts our expectations, challenges our narratives, and uplifts a multitude of voices who have always been here, whether the concert hall was ready or not.
photo by titilayo ayangade
ready or not revisited - family concert | portland, me
Ready or Not Revisited celebrates the groundbreaking visions of women, queer, trans, and nonbinary composers from the medieval period to the present day. This program builds on the concept of Palaver’s 2022 album Ready or Not, which “blew the tent flap open to embrace new contemporary classical fans” (Midwest Record) and left BBC Music Magazine “wanting more.” Repertoire includes wide-ranging selections by Jessie Montgomery, Hildegard von Bingen, inti figgis-vizueta, Tanner Porter, Sato Matsui, Leilehua Lanzilotti, Pétalo Seslar and Lili Boulanger. Ready or Not Revisited disrupts our expectations, challenges our narratives, and uplifts a multitude of voices who have always been here, whether the concert hall was ready or not.
photo by titilayo ayangade
ready or not revisited | portland, me
Ready or Not Revisited celebrates the groundbreaking visions of women, queer, trans, and nonbinary composers from the medieval period to the present day. This program builds on the concept of Palaver’s 2022 album Ready or Not, which “blew the tent flap open to embrace new contemporary classical fans” (Midwest Record) and left BBC Music Magazine “wanting more.” Repertoire includes wide-ranging selections by Jessie Montgomery, Hildegard von Bingen, inti figgis-vizueta, Tanner Porter, Sato Matsui, Leilehua Lanzilotti, Pétalo Seslar and Lili Boulanger. Ready or Not Revisited disrupts our expectations, challenges our narratives, and uplifts a multitude of voices who have always been here, whether the concert hall was ready or not.
photo by titilayo ayangade
beehive chamber series | outlook | portland, me
This program explores multiple outlooks on life and chamber music. Described as a “fervent, celebratory investigation into joy itself,” Paul Wiancko’s Lift explodes with adventurous textures that span the full sonic range of the string quartet. The program continues with two short contemplative pieces by Olafur Arnalds, and concludes with Schubert’s epic “Death and the Maiden,” a passionate dance with death that was only published after Schubert’s own death in 1828.
photo by titilayo ayangade
beehive chamber series | outlook | new york, ny
This program explores multiple outlooks on life and chamber music. Described as a “fervent, celebratory investigation into joy itself,” Paul Wiancko’s Lift explodes with adventurous textures that span the full sonic range of the string quartet. The program continues with two short contemplative pieces by Olafur Arnalds, and concludes with Schubert’s epic “Death and the Maiden,” a passionate dance with death that was only published after Schubert’s own death in 1828.
please note music will begin at 8pm. RSVP for location!
photo by titilayo ayangade
palaver music center | winter celebration recital
Come hear the entire After-School Strings Program perform solo and chamber music pieces that they have been working towards this year. The recital will culminate in a full performance of all PMC students!
photo by yoon s. byun
palaver gathering x scales
join the palaver strings ensemble, friends, and community for drinks, oysters, and a seaside concert at scales followed by a three-course winter meal to support our portland music school and national
performance touring.
photo by titilayo ayangade
there will be no snow date for this event and Scales and Palaver intend to be open for those who can make it!
the palaver gathering is generously sponsored by bangor savings bank, spinnaker trust + the CREWE foundation
a warm thank you to our host committee
Amy Yasko + Lionel Derriey / Andrew Marsters / Ann Casady + Peter Pitegoff / Ari + Natalie Solotoff / Arthur + Elaine Robins / Barbara Lamont / Carol + Joe Wishcamper / Carolyn Benthien / Christina Wright + Luther Black / Dana Street / David Lakari / Fritz + Susan Onion / Gates + Caroline Sanford / Jennifer Queally + Richard Entel / Jonny Asen + Annie Reiner / Josué González + Tami Papagiannopoulos / Judy Wei / Kate + Jess Knox / Kathleen Sullivan + Robert Stevens / Ken Spirer + Joan Leitzer / Kerem Durdag / Elizabeth Hays / Margot + Roger Miliken / Stephanie Cotsirilos / William Black + Jackie Potter
beehive chamber series | rise and shine | brattleboro, vt
Rise and Shine celebrates the versatility and power of the viola, the unsung heartbeat and sonic glue of much of the chamber music we love. This unusual program explores the sonic possibilities of the elusive middle voice, through twentieth-century viola quartets by Kenji Bunch and York Bowen, as well as new folk arrangements by Palaver violists Elizabeth Moore and Lysander Jaffe. We will be joined by special guest violist Sam Kelder.
photo by titilayo ayangade
beehive chamber series | rise and shine | boston, ma
Rise and Shine celebrates the versatility and power of the viola, the unsung heartbeat and sonic glue of much of the chamber music we love. This unusual program explores the sonic possibilities of the elusive middle voice, through twentieth-century viola quartets by Kenji Bunch and York Bowen, as well as new folk arrangements by Palaver violists Elizabeth Moore and Lysander Jaffe. We will be joined by special guest violist Sam Kelder.
photo by titilayo ayangade
beehive chamber series | rise and shine | portland, me
Rise and Shine celebrates the versatility and power of the viola, the unsung heartbeat and sonic glue of much of the chamber music we love. This unusual program explores the sonic possibilities of the elusive middle voice, through twentieth-century viola quartets by Kenji Bunch and York Bowen, as well as new folk arrangements by Palaver violists Elizabeth Moore and Lysander Jaffe. We will be joined by special guest violist Sam Kelder.
photo by titilayo ayangade
lullaby project celebration concert | portland, me
Lullaby Project is a songwriting partnership between pregnant people, new parents, and professional musicians. Working with professional songwriters and engineers, participants write and record original lullabies for their children.
photo by yoon s. byun
songbook | waterville, me
Featuring acclaimed jazz vocalist Vuyo Sotashe and Grammy-nominated pianist Chris Patishall, Songbook celebrates the rich musical heritage of Sotashe’s home country, South Africa. The program includes traditional folk songs in Zulu, Sepedi, and Xhosa, a string quartet by Bongani Ndodana-Breen, choral works by Michael Moreane and Bheki Mseleku, and originals by Vuyo Sotashe, all presented in fresh arrangements for voice, piano, and strings by Chris Patishall. Songbook explores connections between American jazz, South African traditional music, and European classical music, moving fluidly between traditions in a spirit of exploration and joy.
photo by titilayo ayangade
songbook | portland, me
Featuring acclaimed jazz vocalist Vuyo Sotashe and Grammy-nominated pianist Chris Patishall, Songbook celebrates the rich musical heritage of Sotashe’s home country, South Africa. The program includes traditional folk songs in Zulu, Sepedi, and Xhosa, a string quartet by Bongani Ndodana-Breen, choral works by Michael Moreane and Bheki Mseleku, and originals by Vuyo Sotashe, all presented in fresh arrangements for voice, piano, and strings by Chris Patishall. Songbook explores connections between American jazz, South African traditional music, and European classical music, moving fluidly between traditions in a spirit of exploration and joy.
photo by titilayo ayangade
songbook | new york, ny
Featuring acclaimed jazz vocalist Vuyo Sotashe and Grammy-nominated pianist Chris Patishall, Songbook celebrates the rich musical heritage of Sotashe’s home country, South Africa. The program includes traditional folk songs in Zulu, Sepedi, and Xhosa, a string quartet by Bongani Ndodana-Breen, choral works by Michael Moreane and Bheki Mseleku, and originals by Vuyo Sotashe, all presented in fresh arrangements for voice, piano, and strings by Chris Patishall. Songbook explores connections between American jazz, South African traditional music, and European classical music, moving fluidly between traditions in a spirit of exploration and joy.
photo by titilayo ayangade
songbook | las vegas, nv
Featuring acclaimed jazz vocalist Vuyo Sotashe and Grammy-nominated pianist Chris Patishall, Songbook celebrates the rich musical heritage of Sotashe’s home country, South Africa. The program includes traditional folk songs in Zulu, Sepedi, and Xhosa, a string quartet by Bongani Ndodana-Breen, choral works by Michael Moreane and Bheki Mseleku, and originals by Vuyo Sotashe, all presented in fresh arrangements for voice, piano, and strings by Chris Patishall. Songbook explores connections between American jazz, South African traditional music, and European classical music, moving fluidly between traditions in a spirit of exploration and joy.
photo by titilayo ayangade
songbook | las vegas, nv
Featuring acclaimed jazz vocalist Vuyo Sotashe and Grammy-nominated pianist Chris Patishall, Songbook celebrates the rich musical heritage of Sotashe’s home country, South Africa. The program includes traditional folk songs in Zulu, Sepedi, and Xhosa, a string quartet by Bongani Ndodana-Breen, choral works by Michael Moreane and Bheki Mseleku, and originals by Vuyo Sotashe, all presented in fresh arrangements for voice, piano, and strings by Chris Patishall. Songbook explores connections between American jazz, South African traditional music, and European classical music, moving fluidly between traditions in a spirit of exploration and joy.
photo by titilayo ayangade
songbook | los angeles, ca
Featuring acclaimed jazz vocalist Vuyo Sotashe and Grammy-nominated pianist Chris Patishall, Songbook celebrates the rich musical heritage of Sotashe’s home country, South Africa. The program includes traditional folk songs in Zulu, Sepedi, and Xhosa, a string quartet by Bongani Ndodana-Breen, choral works by Michael Moreane and Bheki Mseleku, and originals by Vuyo Sotashe, all presented in fresh arrangements for voice, piano, and strings by Chris Patishall. Songbook explores connections between American jazz, South African traditional music, and European classical music, moving fluidly between traditions in a spirit of exploration and joy.
photo by titilayo ayangade
but there is this | lewiston, me
But There Is This explores our journey through life and our quest for meaning, even when it remains elusive. In works by Corigiliano, Mustonen, Yoshimatu, and Shostakovich, fragments of themes and ideas emerge over time, slowly and imperfectly revealing themselves as part of a larger whole. Each piece takes us on a journey through extreme emotions which are rarely resolved, challenging us to perceive beauty in the small details that make up our lives, even when the whole remains unclear. This program reminds us, in the words of Barabara Ras, that “there is the voice you can still summon at will, like your mother’s/it will always whisper, you can’t have it all, but there is this.”
photo by titilayo ayangade
but there is this - family concert | portland, me
But There Is This explores our journey through life and our quest for meaning, even when it remains elusive. In works by Corigiliano, Mustonen, Yoshimatu, and Shostakovich, fragments of themes and ideas emerge over time, slowly and imperfectly revealing themselves as part of a larger whole. Each piece takes us on a journey through extreme emotions which are rarely resolved, challenging us to perceive beauty in the small details that make up our lives, even when the whole remains unclear. This program reminds us, in the words of Barabara Ras, that “there is the voice you can still summon at will, like your mother’s/it will always whisper, you can’t have it all, but there is this.”
photo by titilayo ayangade
but there is this | portland, me
But There Is This explores our journey through life and our quest for meaning, even when it remains elusive. In works by Corigiliano, Mustonen, Yoshimatu, and Shostakovich, fragments of themes and ideas emerge over time, slowly and imperfectly revealing themselves as part of a larger whole. Each piece takes us on a journey through extreme emotions which are rarely resolved, challenging us to perceive beauty in the small details that make up our lives, even when the whole remains unclear. This program reminds us, in the words of Barabara Ras, that “there is the voice you can still summon at will, like your mother’s/it will always whisper, you can’t have it all, but there is this.”
photo by titilayo ayangade
palaver music center: spring solo recital for third through fifth grade
Come hear the Palaver Music Center After-School Strings Program 3rd-5th grade students perform their solo pieces and celebrate their achievements and hard work!
photo by yoon s. byun
palaver music center | spring celebration recital
Come hear the entire After-School Strings Program perform solo and chamber music pieces that they have been working towards this year. The recital will culminate in a full performance of all PMC students!
photo by yoon s. byun
lifesongs project celebration concert | portland, me
Lifesongs Project celebrates the stories of LGBTQ+ people in our local community. Working with professional songwriters and engineers, project participants write and record original songs of love, loss, courage, and affirmation.
photo by feels like media
ready or not revisited | brooklyn, ny
Ready or Not Revisited celebrates the groundbreaking visions of women, queer, trans, and nonbinary composers from the medieval period to the present day. This program builds on the concept of Palaver’s 2022 album Ready or Not, which “blew the tent flap open to embrace new contemporary classical fans” (Midwest Record) and left BBC Music Magazine “wanting more.” Repertoire includes wide-ranging selections by Jessie Montgomery, Hildegard von Bingen, inti figgis-vizueta, Tanner Porter, Sato Matsui, Leilehua Lanzilotti, Pétalo Seslar and Lili Boulanger. Ready or Not Revisited disrupts our expectations, challenges our narratives, and uplifts a multitude of voices who have always been here, whether the concert hall was ready or not.
music starts at 8:00pm!!
photo by titilayo ayangade
ready or not revisited | putney, vt
Ready or Not Revisited celebrates the groundbreaking visions of women, queer, trans, and nonbinary composers from the medieval period to the present day. This program builds on the concept of Palaver’s 2022 album Ready or Not, which “blew the tent flap open to embrace new contemporary classical fans” (Midwest Record) and left BBC Music Magazine “wanting more.” Repertoire includes wide-ranging selections by Jessie Montgomery, Hildegard von Bingen, inti figgis-vizueta, Tanner Porter, Sato Matsui, Leilehua Lanzilotti, Pétalo Seslar and Lili Boulanger. Ready or Not Revisited disrupts our expectations, challenges our narratives, and uplifts a multitude of voices who have always been here, whether the concert hall was ready or not.
photo by titilayo ayangade
noisefloor | boston, ma
Twelve musicians of Palaver Strings and eight dancers of little house dance perform Noisefloor, a new project that seamlessly blends music and dance—dancers are involved in the composition process and musicians are involved in little house’s movement language. Playing with the subjectivity of human experience, Noisefloor uses architecture and acoustics to transform the theater into an atmospheric cave. Musicians and dancers move throughout the stage and surrounding areas in an immersive physical, visual, and musical experience. Noisefloor features original music by Courtney Swain and choreography by Heather Stewart.
photo by kari mosel
noisefloor | stowe, vt
Twelve musicians of Palaver Strings and eight dancers of little house dance perform Noisefloor, a new project that seamlessly blends music and dance—dancers are involved in the composition process and musicians are involved in little house’s movement language. Playing with the subjectivity of human experience, Noisefloor uses architecture and acoustics to transform the theater into an atmospheric cave. Musicians and dancers move throughout the stage and surrounding areas in an immersive physical, visual, and musical experience. Noisefloor features original music by Courtney Swain and choreography by Heather Stewart.
photo by kari mosel
dancing home | brattleboro, vt
Dancing Home explores themes of heritage, belonging, displacement, and resilience through the lens of dance. At the heart of this program is the world premiere of ḥawwāsh by Kareem Roustom. Inspired by the ḥawwāsh, or lead dancer of a traditional dabke dance, this piece allows any musician to lead the ensemble at any given moment, sharing fluid leadership through physical and sonic cues. This program also features Palaver’s arrangement of Bartok’s Romanian Dances, original tunes by Maya French and Jamie Oshima, and Kinan Azmeh’s Syrian Dances, commissioned by Palaver in 2022. Dancing Home celebrates social dance as a meeting place for tradition and innovation, and a vehicle for building resilience, joy, and trust.
Repertoire:
Dabke (2013) - Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
Syrian Folk Dances - Trad. arr. Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
I. Oh, the tawny beauty
III. Blessed are your wedding garments
ḥawwāsh (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2024) - Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
Syrian Dances (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2023) - Kinan Azmeh (b. 1976)
Romanian Folk Dances (1915) - Bela Bartok (1881-1945) arr. Alexander Goodin and Lysander Jaffe
moth (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2024) - Maya French (b 1993)/Jamie Oshima (b. 1997)
photo by titilayo ayangade
dancing home | cambridge, ma
Dancing Home explores themes of heritage, belonging, displacement, and resilience through the lens of dance. At the heart of this program is the world premiere of ḥawwāsh by Kareem Roustom. Inspired by the ḥawwāsh, or lead dancer of a traditional dabke dance, this piece allows any musician to lead the ensemble at any given moment, sharing fluid leadership through physical and sonic cues. This program also features Palaver’s arrangement of Bartok’s Romanian Dances, original tunes by Maya French and Jamie Oshima, and Kinan Azmeh’s Syrian Dances, commissioned by Palaver in 2022. Dancing Home celebrates social dance as a meeting place for tradition and innovation, and a vehicle for building resilience, joy, and trust.
Repertoire:
**Dabke (2013) - Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
Syrian Folk Dances - Trad. arr. Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
I. Oh, the tawny beauty
III. Blessed are your wedding garments
ḥawwāsh (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2024) - Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
Syrian Dances (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2023) - Kinan Azmeh (b. 1976)
Romanian Folk Dances (1915) - Bela Bartok (1881-1945) arr. Alexander Goodin and Lysander Jaffe
moth (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2024) - Maya French (b 1993)/Jamie Oshima (b. 1997)
**Kareem will kick off the program with a brief talk about his work.
photo by titilayo ayangade
dancing home | freeport, me
Dancing Home explores themes of heritage, belonging, displacement, and resilience through the lens of dance. At the heart of this program is the world premiere of ḥawwāsh by Kareem Roustom. Inspired by the ḥawwāsh, or lead dancer of a traditional dabke dance, this piece allows any musician to lead the ensemble at any given moment, sharing fluid leadership through physical and sonic cues. This program also features Palaver’s arrangement of Bartok’s Romanian Dances, original tunes by Maya French and Jamie Oshima, and Kinan Azmeh’s Syrian Dances, commissioned by Palaver in 2022. Dancing Home celebrates social dance as a meeting place for tradition and innovation, and a vehicle for building resilience, joy, and trust.
Repertoire:
Dabke (2013) - Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
Syrian Folk Dances - Trad. arr. Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
I. Oh, the tawny beauty
III. Blessed are your wedding garments
ḥawwāsh (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2024) - Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
Syrian Dances (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2023) - Kinan Azmeh (b. 1976)
Romanian Folk Dances (1915) - Bela Bartok (1881-1945) arr. Alexander Goodin and Lysander Jaffe
moth (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2024) - Maya French (b 1993)/Jamie Oshima (b. 1997)
photo by titilayo ayangade
dancing home | portland, me
Dancing Home explores themes of heritage, belonging, displacement, and resilience through the lens of dance. At the heart of this program is the world premiere of ḥawwāsh by Kareem Roustom. Inspired by the ḥawwāsh, or lead dancer of a traditional dabke dance, this piece allows any musician to lead the ensemble at any given moment, sharing fluid leadership through physical and sonic cues. This program also features Palaver’s arrangement of Bartok’s Romanian Dances, original tunes by Maya French and Jamie Oshima, and Kinan Azmeh’s Syrian Dances, commissioned by Palaver in 2022. Dancing Home celebrates social dance as a meeting place for tradition and innovation, and a vehicle for building resilience, joy, and trust.
Repertoire:
**Dabke (2013) - Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
Syrian Folk Dances - Trad. arr. Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
I. Oh, the tawny beauty
III. Blessed are your wedding garments
ḥawwāsh (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2024) - Kareem Roustom (b. 1971)
Syrian Dances (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2023) - Kinan Azmeh (b. 1976)
Romanian Folk Dances (1915) - Bela Bartok (1881-1945) arr. Alexander Goodin and Lysander Jaffe
moth (commissioned by Palaver Strings, 2024) - Maya French (b 1993)/Jamie Oshima (b. 1997)
**Kareem will kick off the program with a brief talk about his work.
photo by titilayo ayangade
screen door festival season finale
photo by titilayo ayangade
The culmination of a week of music-making, conversation, and a collective ‘tuning in’ of our new home, our closing gala features performances by artists performing at Screen Door 2024, led by spectacular international vocal talents, GRAMMY award winning tenor, Karim Sulayman and special guest artist, mezzo soprano Devony Smith, a performer widely known for her breathtaking command of a wide variety of operatic and concert repertoire. The concert also features Palaver Strings, Toomai String Quintet, violinist Stefan Jackiw, clarinetist Yoonah Kim, bassoonist Brad Balliett, flutist Nicholas Southwick, and pianists Danny Zelibor, Henry Kramer and Rachel Breen.
The celebratory program includes Copland’s magical Appalachian Spring Suite and an opportunity to sing together as a community of festival artists, supporters and audience members.
Tickets: Age 35+: $38 | 22-34: $20 | 21 & Under: Pay What You Wish
screen door festival | musical storytelling
photo by titilayo ayangade
Palaver Strings presents a FREE program specifically for children (ages 4-10) and families with a storybook theme. Bring the whole family for an afternoon of exploration through active listening, musical expression, movement, and mindfulness.
Program
The Lighthouse Keeper - The Story of Abbie Burgess
Composed by Delvyn Case
Narrated by Elizabeth Moore
screen door festival | visions and miracles
photo by titilayo ayangade
The acclaimed Portland-based, musician-led chamber orchestra returns to Screen Door as ensemble in residence. Responding to the collective vision that established Bay Chamber’s new home, their program features pieces beloved by the ensemble.
Palaver Strings has distinguished itself with their sense of musical adventure and eagerness to engage with music and collaborators from many different genres and traditions. Their program features Kevin Puts’ Oboe Concerto, with soloist, James Austin Smith, one of the finest musicians of his generation. Pulitzer Prize-winning Kevin Puts has gained international acclaim for his “plush, propulsive” music (The New York Times). His opera based on The Hours played recently to enourmous acclaim at the Metropolitan Opera House.
A gorgeous program of transporting music performed by an ensemble whose concerts never fail to thrill and surprise.
Tickets: Age 35+: $38 | 22-34: $20 | 21 & Under: Pay What You Wish
screen door festival | bach for breakfast
photo by titilayo ayangade
Joining us for this special edition of Bach for Breakfast, our performer and scholar of historical music and performance practice, John McKean, “virtuosic” “dazzling" and “brilliant” oboist (The New York Times), James Austin Smith, musical omnivore and innovating teaching artist, bassoonist Brad Balliett, and our much loved resident ensemble, Palaver Strings for our ongoing exploration of Bach’s music.
Zoot coffee and muffins are available before the concert.
Tickets: Age 35+: $38 | 22-34: $20 | 21 & Under: Pay What You Wish
screen door festival | opening concert
photo by titilayo ayangade
A grand opening concert featuring many of the performers appearing throughout the week including Palaver Strings, Toomai String Quintet, oboist James Austin Smith, clarinettist Yoonah Kim, violinist Livia Sohn, cellist Joshua Roman, Boyd Meets Girl, pianist Henry Kramer, baritone Jesse Blumberg, tenor Karim Sulayman, jazz vocalist Sarah Elizabeth Charles and pianist Jarrett Cherner.
Tickets: Age 35+: $38 | 22-34: $20 | 21 & Under: Pay What You Wish
a change is gonna come
Featuring Grammy award-winning tenor Nicholas Phan, this program explores our country’s rich legacy of protest songs. Repertoire includes traditional songs of protest and music inspired by social movements and historical events, including Nico Muhly’s Stranger, Akenya Seymour’s Fear the Lamb, and a new commission by Errollyn Wallen. Spanning genres, eras, and movements, A Change Is Gonna Come provokes conversation, confronts our past and present, and celebrates the act of protest as one of our most precious rights.
a change is gonna come
Featuring Grammy award-winning tenor Nicholas Phan, this program explores our country’s rich legacy of protest songs. Repertoire includes traditional songs of protest and music inspired by social movements and historical events, including Nico Muhly’s Stranger, Akenya Seymour’s Fear the Lamb, and a new commission by Errollyn Wallen. Spanning genres, eras, and movements, A Change Is Gonna Come provokes conversation, confronts our past and present, and celebrates the act of protest as one of our most precious rights.
We have just 10 spots for Palaver's upcoming performance on Thursday, August 8th, at 4:00pm in Tiverton, RI.
Guests are invited to make a contribution of at least $25 to the musicians. BYOB
RSVP with the button below to claim yours (first come, first serve).
a change is gonna come
Featuring Grammy award-winning tenor Nicholas Phan, this program explores our country’s rich legacy of protest songs. Repertoire includes traditional songs of protest and music inspired by social movements and historical events, including Nico Muhly’s Stranger, Akenya Seymour’s Fear the Lamb, and a new commission by Errollyn Wallen. Spanning genres, eras, and movements, A Change Is Gonna Come provokes conversation, confronts our past and present, and celebrates the act of protest as one of our most precious rights.
Doors at 7:00pm / Music at 8:00pm
lifesongs celebration concert
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
the culmination event for our 2024 lifesongs project
spring celebration recital
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
join us for our palaver music center spring recital celebration featuring our pre-kindergarten through 4th grade strings students and our early childhood music program.
this event is free and open to the public!
between us with attacca quartet
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
Palaver Strings joins forces with the Grammy award-winning Attacca Quartet for a unique collaborative performance. Selected musical works explore themes of togetherness and collective vision, in human communities, physical space, and the natural world. Caroline Shaw’s Plan & Elevation responds to the landscape of Dumbarton Oaks and ideas of space and proportion. Paul Wiancko’s Only Ever Us reflects on human connection, while Under the Sea Wind, co-composed by Dana Lyn and Kyle Sanna for Palaver Strings, explores the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems. The program concludes with Dvorak’s Serenade for Strings, an iconic staple of string chamber repertoire, featuring the combined forces of both ensembles.
Egos flos Campi a 7 Jacobus Clemens non Papa
Plan and Elevation Caroline Shaw
Under the Sea Wind Dana Lyn/Kyle Sana
Only Ever Us Paul Wiancko
Serenade for Strings Antonin Dvorak
between us with attacca quartet
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
Palaver Strings joins forces with the Grammy award-winning Attacca Quartet for a unique collaborative performance. Selected musical works explore themes of togetherness and collective vision, in human communities, physical space, and the natural world. Caroline Shaw’s Plan & Elevation responds to the landscape of Dumbarton Oaks and ideas of space and proportion. Paul Wiancko’s Only Ever Us reflects on human connection, while Under the Sea Wind, co-composed by Dana Lyn and Kyle Sanna for Palaver Strings, explores the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems. The program concludes with Dvorak’s Serenade for Strings, an iconic staple of string chamber repertoire, featuring the combined forces of both ensembles.
Egos flos Campi a 7 Jacobus Clemens non Papa
Plan and Elevation Caroline Shaw
Under the Sea Wind Dana Lyn/Kyle Sana
Only Ever Us Paul Wiancko
Serenade for Strings Antonin Dvorak
between us with attacca quartet - cancelled
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
This performance is cancelled. See us in Rockport or Portland instead!
Palaver Strings joins forces with the Grammy award-winning Attacca Quartet for a unique collaborative performance. Selected musical works explore themes of togetherness and collective vision, in human communities, physical space, and the natural world. Caroline Shaw’s Plan & Elevation responds to the landscape of Dumbarton Oaks and ideas of space and proportion. Paul Wiancko’s Only Ever Us reflects on human connection, while Under the Sea Wind, co-composed by Dana Lyn and Kyle Sanna for Palaver Strings, explores the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems. The program concludes with Dvorak’s Serenade for Strings, an iconic staple of string chamber repertoire, featuring the combined forces of both ensembles.
Egos flos Campi a 7 Jacobus Clemens non Papa
Plan and Elevation Caroline Shaw
Under the Sea Wind Dana Lyn/Kyle Sana
Only Ever Us Paul Wiancko
Serenade for Strings Antonin Dvorak
between us with attacca quartet
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
Palaver Strings joins forces with the Grammy award-winning Attacca Quartet for a unique collaborative performance. Selected musical works explore themes of togetherness and collective vision, in human communities, physical space, and the natural world. Caroline Shaw’s Plan & Elevation responds to the landscape of Dumbarton Oaks and ideas of space and proportion. Paul Wiancko’s Only Ever Us reflects on human connection, while Under the Sea Wind, co-composed by Dana Lyn and Kyle Sanna for Palaver Strings, explores the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems. The program concludes with Dvorak’s Serenade for Strings, an iconic staple of string chamber repertoire, featuring the combined forces of both ensembles.
Egos flos Campi a 7 Jacobus Clemens non Papa
Plan and Elevation Caroline Shaw
Under the Sea Wind Dana Lyn/Kyle Sana
Only Ever Us Paul Wiancko
Serenade for Strings Antonin Dvorak
between us with attacca quartet
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
Palaver Strings joins forces with the Grammy award-winning Attacca Quartet for a unique collaborative performance. Selected musical works explore themes of togetherness and collective vision, in human communities, physical space, and the natural world. Caroline Shaw’s Plan & Elevation responds to the landscape of Dumbarton Oaks and ideas of space and proportion. Paul Wiancko’s Only Ever Us reflects on human connection, while Under the Sea Wind, co-composed by Dana Lyn and Kyle Sanna for Palaver Strings, explores the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems. The program concludes with Dvorak’s Serenade for Strings, an iconic staple of string chamber repertoire, featuring the combined forces of both ensembles.
Egos flos Campi a 7 Jacobus Clemens non Papa
Plan and Elevation Caroline Shaw
Under the Sea Wind Dana Lyn/Kyle Sana
Only Ever Us Paul Wiancko
Serenade for Strings Antonin Dvorak
visions and miracles: matinee
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
This one-hour program brings together music that is transcendent in nature, drawing inspiration from dreams, medieval chant, renaissance polyphony, spirituality, and the power of silence. Anchored by Christopher Theofanidis’ otherworldy composition of the same name, Visions and Miracles takes us on a journey through the gentle sound worlds of Arvo Part, Max Richter, and Caroline Shaw, interspersed with excerpts of Mendelssohn’s Sinfonia No. 1. With mesmerizing harmonies and moments of joy, grief, and gentleness, Visions and Miracles is evocative and reflective, grounding and transcendent.
Summa for Strings Arvo Pärt
Entr’acte Caroline Shaw
Sinfonia No. 1 Felix Mendelssohn
Visions and Miracles Christopher Theofanidis
On the Nature of Daylight Max Richter
moth Maya French/Jamie Oshima
visions and miracles
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
This one-hour program brings together music that is transcendent in nature, drawing inspiration from dreams, medieval chant, renaissance polyphony, spirituality, and the power of silence. Anchored by Christopher Theofanidis’ otherworldy composition of the same name, Visions and Miracles takes us on a journey through the gentle sound worlds of Arvo Part, Max Richter, and Caroline Shaw, interspersed with excerpts of Mendelssohn’s Sinfonia No. 1. With mesmerizing harmonies and moments of joy, grief, and gentleness, Visions and Miracles is evocative and reflective, grounding and transcendent.
Summa for Strings Arvo Pärt
Entr’acte Caroline Shaw
Sinfonia No. 1 Felix Mendelssohn
Visions and Miracles Christopher Theofanidis
On the Nature of Daylight Max Richter
moth Maya French/Jamie Oshima
visions and miracles
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
This one-hour program brings together music that is transcendent in nature, drawing inspiration from dreams, medieval chant, renaissance polyphony, spirituality, and the power of silence. Anchored by Christopher Theofanidis’ otherworldy composition of the same name, Visions and Miracles takes us on a journey through the gentle sound worlds of Arvo Part, Max Richter, and Caroline Shaw, interspersed with excerpts of Mendelssohn’s Sinfonia No. 1. With mesmerizing harmonies and moments of joy, grief, and gentleness, Visions and Miracles is evocative and reflective, grounding and transcendent.
Summa for Strings Arvo Pärt
Entr’acte Caroline Shaw
Sinfonia No. 1 Felix Mendelssohn
Visions and Miracles Christopher Theofanidis
On the Nature of Daylight Max Richter
moth Maya French/Jamie Oshima
visions and miracles
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
This one-hour program brings together music that is transcendent in nature, drawing inspiration from dreams, medieval chant, renaissance polyphony, spirituality, and the power of silence. Anchored by Christopher Theofanidis’ otherworldy composition of the same name, Visions and Miracles takes us on a journey through the gentle sound worlds of Arvo Part, Max Richter, and Caroline Shaw, interspersed with excerpts of Mendelssohn’s Sinfonia No. 1. With mesmerizing harmonies and moments of joy, grief, and gentleness, Visions and Miracles is evocative and reflective, grounding and transcendent.
Summa for Strings Arvo Pärt
Entr’acte Caroline Shaw
Sinfonia No. 1 Felix Mendelssohn
Visions and Miracles Christopher Theofanidis
On the Nature of Daylight Max Richter
moth Maya French/Jamie Oshima
visions and miracles: very open rehearsal
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
Join Palaver and Longy for very open dress rehearsal of their visions and miracles program.
The ensemble will be rehearsing excerpts from their one-hour program that brings together music that is transcendent in nature, drawing inspiration from dreams, medieval chant, renaissance polyphony, spirituality, and the power of silence. Anchored by Christopher Theofanidis’ otherworldy composition of the same name, Visions and Miracles takes us on a journey through the gentle sound worlds of Arvo Part, Max Richter, and Caroline Shaw, interspersed with excerpts of Mendelssohn’s Sinfonia No. 1. With mesmerizing harmonies and moments of joy, grief, and gentleness, Visions and Miracles is evocative and reflective, grounding and transcendent.
Summa for Strings Arvo Pärt
Entr’acte Caroline Shaw
Sinfonia No. 1 Felix Mendelssohn
Visions and Miracles Christopher Theofanidis
On the Nature of Daylight Max Richter
Fiddle Set Maya French/Jamie Oshima
beehive chamber series: nightingale in a tree
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
Palaver Strings welcomes Fredy Clue, a Nyckelharpa virtuoso, composer, and multi-instrumentalist from Sweden. Hailed as “a creator of remarkable experiences and a true innovator in the folk art space,” Clue has taken the traditional music scene by storm. Their music takes inspiration from the forests, oceans, birds, and animals alike. Joined by Maine’s own Jamie Oshima, we will premiere Fredy’s new arrangements for Nyckelharpa and strings. We pair Clue’s music with Philip Glass’ Fourth String Quartet. Written in memory of avant-garde artist Brian Buczak, this three-movement work combines undulating arpeggios, soaring melodies, and rich harmonies to create a deep-rooted, whole-body experience.
musicians maya french + katie knudsvig, violins / elizabeth moore, viola / timothy paek, cello / fredy clue, nyckelharpa / jamie oshima, guitar
Arrangements and Compositions Fredy Clue
String Quartet No. 4 Philip Glass
palaver gathering / ten years
Art by Devon Kelley-Yurdin
the evening will feature a performance by Palaver Strings in the beautiful and historic Portland Custom House followed by a community dance party led by DJ, Lucy Dhegrae and Curbside Queens.
Maine + Loire and Cocktail Mary will be providing wine and drinks throughout the evening and several neighborhood food vendors will be there to sell tasty bites.
6:30pm drinks, bites + conversation
7pm palaver strings performance
8pm more drinks, bites + community
8:30pm d A n C e!!
thank you to our generous host committee
Andrew Marsters
Ann Casady + Peter Pitegoff
Ari + Natalie Solotoff
Ariel Pardee + Todd French
Arthur + Elaine Robins
Barbara Lamont
Blanca Santiago
Carolyn Benthien
Daniel Crewe
David Lakari
Eli Kao
Glenn Cummings + Leslie Appelbaum
Jamie + Beth Kilbreth
Jane + Dana Swenson
Jane Ceraso + Steve Lowe
Jennifer Queally + Rich Entel
Joanne D’Arcangelo
John Ryan + Jenny Scheu
Jorge Acero + Catherine Besteman
Josh + Kate Benthien
Josué González + Tami Papagiannopoulos
Judy Hearst
Kate + Jess Knox
Ken Spirer + Joan Leitzer
Lauren Sterling + Bro Adams
Liz Hays
Mathieu Gaulin
Margot Miliken
Peggy Golden
Raffi + Caitlin Dersimonian
Sandi Knakal
Shelley + Bob Willcox
Stephanie Cotsirilos
Steve Gerlach + Kim MacDonald
Susan Schraft + Richard Berne
Whitney Hogan + Patrick Walters
William Black + Jackie Potter