In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music, a new wave of composers and performers is emerging, bringing with them a fresh and diverse array of sounds and styles. This article spotlights the inaugural class of ’21 for ’21’, a group of 21 groundbreaking artists who are redefining the boundaries of music in our current era. From the integration of technology in composition to the fusion of cultural musical traditions, these musicians are not only creating innovative works but also providing a soundtrack that resonates with the complexities of our times. As we explore their unique contributions, we gain insight into how these artists are shaping the future soundscape of music.
Music critics are often seen as connoisseurs of sound, akin to interior decorators of the intangible or sommeliers of sonic experiences. They are expected to curate playlists that resonate with the mood of the moment. However, the current landscape of music, marked by instability and uncertainty, defies such conventional approaches. This article takes a different path, introducing the inaugural class of ’21 for ’21’ – a diverse group of composers and performers who are shaping the future of music.
These artists, some at the beginning of their careers and others well-established, share a common trait: their music resonates powerfully in the present. They represent a variety of styles, identities, and experiences, offering fresh and exciting perspectives on what our future in music might sound like.
Brooklyn-based Andres, 35, exemplifies adaptability and creativity. During the lockdown of 2020, he set up a tripod and transformed his YouTube channel into a platform for his lucid performances. His work, “House Work,” a clarinet quintet, encapsulates the essence of living room quarantine life.
Michael A. Muller and Rob Lowe, also stand out with their debut on Deutsche Grammophon with “The Wind.” Their music, an Americana-infused meditation on nature, demonstrates their ability to blend notions of distance and intimacy into their soundscapes.
Composer Christopher Cerrone, responds to the pandemic with a blend of percussive wit and poetic sensitivity. His works range from the whimsical “Don’t Look Down” to the more introspective “The Pieces That Fall to Earth,” showcasing his versatility.
Viet Cuong, brings a playful yet profound approach to composition, often centering his pieces around whimsical elements. His upcoming works include “Next Week’s Trees” and “Vital Sines,” promising further innovation in musical expression.
Flannery Cunningham, uses technology to expand the boundaries of music. Her work includes transforming laptops into a voiceless choir and using pianos to print new scores, all while maintaining the humanity at the core of her music.
Reena Esmail, seamlessly integrates Indian and Western musical traditions. Her compositions, such as “Piano Trio” and “Zeher (Poison),” are testament to her unique approach to cross-cultural music-making.
Adelia Faizullina, draws on her visual impairment to create music that reflects her environment. Her work, including “Bolghar” and “Drops and Ripples,” explores memory and imagination, showcasing the vastness of her musical world.
Inti Figgis-Vizueta, creates music that defies structure and certainty. Her compositions, such as “Music for Transitions” and “Openwork, Knotted Object,” demonstrate her ability to navigate between musical idioms.
Violinist Randall Goosby, is a rising star in the classical music world. His interpretation of works like Beethoven’s “Kreutzer” Sonata and his upcoming album of violin works by Black composers, mark him as an artist to watch.
Guitarist Jiji, challenges conventions with her album “UNBOUND!,” showcasing her ability to tackle complex compositions from a global array of composers.
Pekka Kuusisto, captivates with his versatility, playing works ranging from Sibelius to Bryce Dessner. His upcoming projects, including “Occurrence” and the U.K. premiere of Nico Muhly’s “Shrink,” highlight his dynamic range.
Yaz Lancaster, blends various musical genres in their compositions. Their experiments in integrating vaporwave and trap elements into classical forms demonstrate their innovative approach to music-making.
Angelica Negrón, utilizes unconventional sound sources like field recordings and robots to create unique musical experiences. Her compositions, such as “Marejada” and “Estela,” showcase her limitless creativity.
Niloufar Nourbakhsh, combines electroacoustic elements with a deep sensitivity to history and identity. Her opera “We the Innumerable” is a poignant reflection of real-world events.
Minneapolis-based Mary Prescott, creates interdisciplinary works that explore heritage and identity. Her project “Tida” and the opera “Alma” exemplify her commitment to creating uncompromising and innovative art.
Composer Dan Shore, gained recognition with his opera “Freedom Ride.” His ongoing projects, including arrangements of Yiddish folk songs, reflect his diverse musical interests.
Nadia Sirota, a talented solo violist and member of yMusic, is also known for her
As we conclude this exploration of the ’21 for ’21’ class, it’s clear that the future of music is in capable and inventive hands. These artists, through their diverse backgrounds and creative approaches, are not just reimagining musical boundaries but are also providing a rich tapestry of sounds that reflect the multifaceted nature of our world. Their contributions are a testament to the power of music as a medium for expression, innovation, and connection. As we look forward to the unfolding musical landscape, it is with great anticipation that we await the continued evolution and influence of these remarkable artists in the years to come.
