Music
Upcoming Concert Showcases Talented Composers and Performers
2025-05-18

A remarkable musical event is set to take place on May 20, organized by Music at the Anthology (MATA). This concert will feature works from two exceptional composers, Azalea Twining and Anna Heflin. Shannon Reilly will open the evening with a performance of Heflin's one-act opera for singing violinist titled "The Wonderland Series." This unique piece combines pre-recorded audio and video elements, allowing the soloist to bring multiple characters to life. The program concludes with the world premiere of Twining's song cycle, "Enough Rope," inspired by Dorothy Parker's poetry collection. Accompanied by Sebastian Grinberg-Bly on piano, Twining herself will perform the vocal part. As part of the Carnegie Hill Concerts series, this event will be hosted at The Church of Advent Hope in New York City, starting at 7:30 pm.

The upcoming concert promises an innovative blend of contemporary music and storytelling. Shannon Reilly's interpretation of Anna Heflin's "The Wonderland Series" sets the stage for an imaginative journey. This one-act opera features a singing violinist who interacts with pre-recorded multimedia components. By embodying various roles through voice and violin, the performer crafts a captivating narrative that transcends traditional boundaries of instrumental music. The integration of video and audio enhances the visual and auditory experience, drawing the audience into a fantastical realm.

In the second half of the program, audiences will witness the debut of Azalea Twining’s "Enough Rope." Rooted in Dorothy Parker's celebrated poems, this song cycle explores themes of wit, satire, and introspection. With Twining taking the lead vocals and accompanied by Sebastian Grinberg-Bly on piano, the performance offers a deeply personal connection between composer and listener. Each song in the cycle reflects the emotional depth and linguistic elegance found in Parker’s work, creating a harmonious marriage of words and melody.

This special evening of music invites listeners to immerse themselves in the creative worlds of these talented artists. Held within the intimate setting of The Church of Advent Hope, the concert provides an ideal atmosphere for experiencing modern compositions. Through their artistry, both Shannon Reilly and Azalea Twining aim to push the limits of conventional performance practices while honoring literary influences. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and prepare for an unforgettable night filled with innovation and expression.

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