Aron Kallay, piano: “X”
X – Metal strings struck by hammers excite the air. Peaks and troughs radiate outwards in precise predetermined relationships. Vibrations are transduced into electrical impulses by the smallest of bones. Synapses fire. Neurotransmitters are released. An intense euphoric experience follows.
This program, presented by pianist Aron Kallay, explores ecstasy and ecstatic states in music and is inspired by mysticism, religion, meditation, repetition, beauty, and the grotesque. The concert features works by Scriabin, Messiaen, Alvin Curran, and new commissions from Rajna Swaminathan and Dante De Silva.
Sunday, April 2, 2023, 7 p.m.
Drinkward Recital Hall
Aron Kallay. Photo courtesy of the artist.
PROGRAM
X
Exploring ecstasy and ecstatic states in music
The ecstasy of...
...anticipation
Savory (2023)
Savory (2023)
Dante De Silva
(1978-)
...pure sonic pleasure
Hope Street Tunnel Blues III (1983)
Hope Street Tunnel Blues III (1983)
Alvin Curran
(1938-)
...attention
Still life with piano (1989)
Still life with piano (1989)
Frances White
(1960-)
...revelation
Sonata No. 5, Op. 53 (1907)
Sonata No. 5, Op. 53 (1907)
Alexander Scriabin
(1871-1915)
Pianist Aron Kallay has performed throughout the United States and abroad and is a fixture on the Los Angeles new-music scene. He is the co-founder and board president of People Inside Electronics (PIE), a concert series dedicated to classical electroacoustic music, the managing director of MicroFest, Los Angeles’ annual festival of microtonal music, and the co-directer of the underground new-music concert series Tuesdays@MONK Space. He is also the co-director of MicroFest Records, whose first release, John Cage: The Ten Thousand Things, was nominated for a Grammy® award for Best Chamber Music Performance. Aron has recorded on MicroFest, Cold Blue, Delos, and Populist records. In addition to his solo work, Aron is currently a member of the Pierrot + percussion ensemble Brightwork newmusic, the Varied Trio, and the Ray-Kallay Duo. He is on the faculty of Pomona College and Chapman University.
Visit Safely
The concert series is open to the public. All audience members are required to give health attestation before entering the venue and wear a mask at all times regardless of vaccination status. The Covid-19 guidelines will be updated as new information becomes available.HMC is deeply grateful for the generous support that created The Ken Stevens ’61 Founding Class Concert Series.