Soundstreams, a prominent global contemporary music company dedicated to promoting new Canadian music, has unveiled its highly anticipated 2023-24 season. Known for their innovative thematic and experiential programming, Soundstreams aims to engage a diverse community of music enthusiasts.
In an official press statement, Lawrence Cherney, the Founding Artistic Director of Soundstreams, emphasized the significance of collective experiences in our post-pandemic world. While the convenience of staying home is undeniable, Cherney highlighted the innate human need for shared moments and emotions. Great music has the power to evoke profound feelings, nourishing the soul and fostering a sense of shared humanity. This philosophy serves as the driving force behind Soundstreams' upcoming season.
The season begins with "The Bright Divide," featuring Morton Feldman's "Rothko Chapel." Originally composed for the opening of the Rothko Chapel in Houston, Texas, Feldman's score, which incorporates solo viola, timpani, and choir, engages in a musical dialogue with Mark Rothko's renowned paintings. The performance pays homage to the Chapel's mission of celebrating our common humanity and inspiring dignity and respect. In response to Feldman's piece and Rothko's art, the world premiere of "mark" by Canadian composer Cecilia Livingston explores the tensions present in Rothko's works. These immersive and contemplative compositions showcase Soundstreams' Choir 21, conducted by David Fallis, and renowned violist Steven Dann.
Mark your calendars for November 10 and 11, 2023, when "The Bright Divide" will grace the stage of TD Music Hall.
As the holiday season approaches, Soundstreams presents "Electric Messiah," a captivating reinterpretation of Handel's masterpiece. This production takes inspiration from Handel's beautiful arias and choruses while infusing it with universal appeal. Exploring themes of love, betrayal, joy, and redemption, "Electric Messiah" undergoes annual transformations by blending diverse influences, ranging from jazz to hip-hop and gospel. Immerse yourself in this unique and exhilarating performance from December 14 to 17, 2023, at Theatre Passe Muraille.
The internationally acclaimed Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, under the direction of Tõnu Kaljuste, returns to Toronto for a spiritual and awe-inspiring repertoire. The program showcases beloved compositions by Arvo Pärt, including "Magnificat," "Nunc Dimittis," "Dopo la Vittoria," and "Kanon Pokajanen," as well as works by Palestrina. Additionally, Canadian composer Omar Daniel will present a thought-provoking premiere that offers a distinct perspective on life and death. Experience this extraordinary performance on February 3, 2024.
Soundstreams' 2023-24 season promises to captivate audiences with its rich and diverse selection of musical experiences, pushing the boundaries of contemporary music and fostering a profound connection between artists and listeners.