Release concert for Steve Blum's PHASES, a set of minimalist pieces for synthesizer. Joined by The Guthrie Project, a duo comprising Beth Schenck and Matt Wrobel.
PHASES is a series of minimalist classical-inspired pieces for synthesizer. Bridging the gap between new classical music, classical electronic music, and the improvised avant garde, PHASES approaches the idea of synthesizer as instrument. As an instrument, each model of synthesizer has its own unique sonic and expressive qualities. This new set of pieces combines composed, generative, and improvised elements all centered around different concepts of phasing, and was recorded live with no overdubs. These pieces are influenced by the music of Steve Reich, Morton Subotnick, Conlon Nancarrow, Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith, Aphex Twin, and more.
The Guthrie Project is a collaboration between Beth Schenck (saxophones + compositions) and Matt Wrobel (guitar), who have been playing music together for over a decade. After their son was born in 2011, Beth began writing short musical poems out of a growing interest in small scale/minimalist structures that could exercise both musical restraint and freedom of space. The product possesses an expansive, cinematic quality that has been described as “lyrical, rich and biting” (Greg Burk, metaljazz.com). Beth and Matt have performed throughout the United States, Europe and Japan and have performed with world-renowned musicians Henry Threadgill, Rajeev Taranath, Jim Black, Bill McHenry, Andrew D’Angelo and many others.