The AfriClassical Futures Series continues with Julian Davis Reid's trio Circle of Trust, and a solo performance from Dark Matter Residency alumni Shannon Harris. Reid's trio will present his original compositions. Reid writes, "With the advent of AI and the crumbling reputation of longstanding institutions like the Church and political leaders, we are experiencing an erosion of trust. So it is incumbent to keep practicing trust. Music is one of those places to practice it. Whether listener or performer, you can practice trusting the sounds and the people making them. When we think about music this way, we can transfer that spirit of trust from music to our circles of trust wherever we find them (God, our neighbors, ourselves, our families)." We’ll then have a solo improvisation performance from Dark Matter Residency alumni Shannon Harris with his Sonic Air Improv project which seeks to transform ultrasonic energy into cosmic classical experiences. Following the live performances the artists will engage in a conversation with pianist, composer, and current Dark Matter Resident, Sharon Udoh. It will be a beautiful night not to miss. Music at 8pm.

We’re back with our second AfriClassical Futures Series of 2023 which seeks to foreground the under-recognized achievements and challenges of African American composers and performers working in classical music. This month we have special guest JJJJJJerome Ellis performing in collaboration with Angel Bat Dawid! We’ll then present a solo set from brilliant woodwind player and Elastro Series curator Luc Mosley. We’ll close the event with a conversation between these artists and AfriClassical Futures alum Sharon Udoh. It’s going to be an amazing night. Don’t miss it!

The first AfriClassical Futures Series of 2023 has arrived and will feature two incredible Chicago musicians and composers, Julian Otis and Sharon Udoh! There will be solo music, collaborations, and discussion. Through the AfriClassical Futures Series, Elastic Arts seeks to foreground the under-recognized achievements and challenges of African American composers and performers working in classical music. Keep an eye out for events each quarter in 2023!