Ensemble ACJW to present musical valentine to Skidmore audience

Ensemble ACJW returns to the stage of Skidmore’s Arthur Zankel Music Center at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13. A pre-performance talk with composer Meredith Monk will begin at 7 p.m. This event—the second of two residencies this academic year—is sponsored by Skidmore’s Department of Music and the Office of the Dean of Special Programs, with the generous support of the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Foundation.

The program features Roussel’s Trio for Flute, Viola, and Cello, Op. 40; Ravel’s Piano Trio in A Minor; and the world premiere of “Backlight” by Meredith Monk. In program notes for the Feb. 13 performance, Monk explains that “Backlight,” composed especially for Ensemble ACJW, "plays sonically with the idea of shadow and light, exploring it from different vantage points."

A composer, singer, and creator of new opera and music-theater works, Monk has been acclaimed for five decades as a major creative force in the performing arts. Her recent accolades include being named an officer of the Order of Arts and Letters by the Republic of France and receiving 2012 Composer of the Year honors from Music America.

Ensemble ACJW, fellows of The Academy, is a program of Carnegie Hall, the Juilliard School, and the Weill Music Institute in partnership with the New York City Department of Education. Created in 2007, Ensemble ACJW supports young professionals in the development of their music careers with advanced musical training and intensive teaching instruction. Furthermore, the program encourages the adaptation of skills required for careers that combine musical excellence with education, community engagement, advocacy, and leadership.

Twice annually, Ensemble ACJW participates in a five-day residency at Skidmore. The fellows offer master classes, lessons, and class demonstrations, perform with students of the Skidmore College Orchestra and read student compositions. They also present concert programs that include world premieres commissioned by Carnegie Hall. In addition, Ensemble fellows participate in community outreach while in residence at Skidmore.

Admission for the Friday, Feb. 13, event is $8 adults; $5 seniors, retirees, faculty, and staff; and free for students and children. For advance reservations or more information, please click here or call the box office at (518)-580-5321. The Zankel Music Center is wheelchair accessible and offers listening devices for the hearing impaired.