By Laurie O’Neill — [email protected]
The Concord Conservatory of Music promises “a family-friendly, multi-sensory musical adventure” on March 22 with a performance by Around Hear, a Somerville-based chamber music ensemble.
Around Hear, established in 2017, is known for its innovative and engaging concerts. The group will present works by Johann Sebastian Bach, Antonín Dvořák, and contemporary composers Mike Kelley and Dan Sedgwick. Musical themes will range from “the cosmos to the common pigeon,” says Sara Seng, a spokesperson for the organization.
The ensemble includes Around Hear founders and core members Marji Gere, a violinist, and pianist Sedgwick, who will be joined by vocalist Will Green. Around Hear is supported by the Somerville Housing Authority and Mass Cultural Council among other organizations and provides music education to low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities.
Nathan Xu of Bedford, a Fenn School student, will open the concert with “Oblivion” by Astor Piazzolla, an Argentine composer who blends tango with Western classical tradition and improvisation. Nathan studies piano at the CCM with Masako Yotsugi and has previously earned a gold medal in the conservatory’s annual Piano Honors Evaluations.
Poets and puppeteers
“Around Hear offers a truly unique opportunity for families to discover the magic of live music together. To see the joy on the faces of our community as they immerse themselves in high-quality live music is such a thrill,” says Kate Yoder, CCM founder and director.
“This unique blend of exceptional artistry and genuine connection makes concerts like Around Hear an indispensable part of our mission.”
Around Hear has produced concerts with guest artists including musicians working in and beyond the classical music tradition, and with dancers, puppeteers, visual artists, storytellers, and poets. Its members have taught music to community members of all ages.
The CCM, which serves Concord and 15 surrounding communities, enrolls more than 670 students annually and offers programs for people of all ages and abilities including private instruction, group classes, and performance opportunities.
The concert will be at the Concord Conservatory of Music, 1317 Main Street, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 22. Admission is $10 and free for students 18 and under. Tickets can be purchased in advance at concordconservatory.org/events/around-hear/ or at the door.
