Festival of Contemporary Art Music
Contemporary Art Music—In the Spotlight

“When contemporary music is introduced in a university, it serves as a bridge for us to share thinking and understanding between peoples with different cultural backgrounds. It benefits all human beings in the society little by little.”
—Composer Chen Yi on the importance of Washington State University’s Festival of Contemporary Art Music

2003—Washington State University’s 2003 celebration of contemporary art music was special in many ways, thanks in great part to the talent and infectious personality of composer Chen Yi. “In every way, Chen Yi exceeded our expectations,” said Charles Argersinger, festival creator. “Her compositions are complex, thought provoking, and a magnificent experience for our students and faculty to perform.”

2004—Composer Stephen Michael Gryc will be the composer honored at this year’s festival. Gryc’s commissions represent a diverse group of the world’s leading soloists, including oboist Bert Lucarelli, flutist John Wion, and trumpeter Philip Smith. Gryc’s most recent commissions include a trombone concerto for Joseph Alessi, principal trombonist of the New York Philharmonic. His works for large ensembles have been performed by such groups as the Eastman Wind Ensemble, United States Marine Band, and Minnesota Orchestra.

The WSU Chorale and Madrigals will perform Chen Yi’s folk songs in the Grand Lobby at Benaroya Hall in downtown Seattle on the evening of the world premiere of Yi’s Symphony No. 3, My Musical Journey to America, on March 18, 2004, at 7:00 p.m.

Additional performance dates and times:

• Friday afternoon March 19
  12:30 p.m. until 12:55 p.m.
• Saturday night March 20
  7:30 p.m. until 7:55 p.m.
• Sunday afternoon March 21
  1:30 p.m. until 1:55 p.m.