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Omega Ensemble continues its 2021 National Concert Season with Ex Machina, a program which features music by Aaron Copland, Bryce Dessner, Grammy Award nominee Missy Mazzoli, and the world premiere of a new work by Nico Muhly, commissioned with the brief to “push the individual musicians to their limits”. Following a critically acclaimed collaboration with Nico Muhly in 2019, the 2021 Season features a second collaboration with the highly sought-after American composer and a world premiere work to be brought to life through a unique micro-commissioning program.
Copland’s thrilling Sextet started life in 1933 as his Second (also know as ‘Short’) Symphony. However, following its premiere, the work was largely avoided by orchestras due to its challenging complexity, and the composer declared it as one of his “neglected children.” Out of frustration, Copland re-wrote the work in the hope that more ambitious ensembles would take up the challenge, and the work would receive the performances it deserved.
This program of 20th- and 21st-century music from important American voices presents complex and driving works, showcasing Omega Ensemble as a virtuosic machine in an intimate chamber setting.
This program will tour to Newcastle, Sydney and Melbourne, followed by touring programs in September, October and December.
The program: Bryce Dessner –Aheym/ Bryce Dessner – El Chan [Australian Premiere]/ Missy Mazzoli –Harp and Altar/ Nico Muhly –Sextet [World Premiere]/ Aaron Copland – Sextet