The language of universal Modal elements used by J.S. Bach has influenced the work of countless composers and musicians who followed. Schwendener translates these ideas into an improvisation for the modern era, delving into the depths of our commonality with one another and our oneness with nature. By approaching musicians like Bach with an analytical, mathematical eye, Schwendener is able to show us a completely new kind of music. This intimate performance in Wolfinsohn invites the audience to open their hearts and ears to this experience, with Schwendener’s helpful guidance.
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Realizations | Ben Schwendener, piano | Faculty Artist Recital
Thursday • November 11, 2021 | 7:30 pm
Free – $20.00
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Composer / pianist Ben Schwendener sustains a unique voice in contemporary creative music and is a leading authority on George Russell’s Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization, which he assisted Russell in teaching at the New England Conservatory from 1986 to 2004.
Schwendener’s latest book Organic Music Theory (Pumping Station, 2017) presents a new direction in natural pedagogy and dialogue-based arts education, establishing Organic Music Theory and Universal Musical Elements as primary creative sources. He has given lectures, workshops and seminars at Universities and institutions around the world. Schwendener is on the faculty at the New England Conservatory and Longy School of Music of Bard College, and has designed classes for non-musicians, based on the inter-discipline correspondences of Organic Music Theory for the Creative and Critical Thinking Department in the Graduate College of Education at UMass Boston.
As a touring performance artist, his groups include the Mobile Trio with drummer Kenwood Dennard and bassist Marc Friedman, LYRIC with singer Carley DeFranco, as well as collaborations with international musicians and dancers.
Ben lives in Boston with his wife Shari and three children Elodi, Uli and Blue.
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Thanks to our partnership with the Massachusetts Cultural Council and their “Card to Culture” program, Longy School of Music of Bard College can offer free tickets to many of our diverse and innovative performance offerings. See the full list of participating “Card to Culture” organizations offering EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare discounts.