Celebrating SoundBox: A Landmark in Innovative Programming
Reflecting on my recent performance at the San Francisco Symphony’s SoundBox, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such an extraordinary program curated by the brilliant composer Courtney Bryan. This concert was a powerful celebration of groundbreaking works by composers connected to the African-American diaspora, highlighting their deep contributions to American classical music.
Meeting Courtney and working through rehearsals was an inspiring experience, and the boldness of her programming left a lasting impression. The evening’s repertoire spanned a vast spectrum of sound, from the hypnotic rhythmic minimalism of Marcus Balter’s Dreamcatcher, to Tania León’s Cuban-infused Tumbalo, and Roger Dickerson’s Sonatina, which evoked a deeply pastoral, Americana sensibility. Each piece, written over a span of 60 years, presented a unique voice yet collectively told a powerful story of cultural identity and artistic evolution.
A Unique Performance Space
For those who attended, SoundBox was an unforgettable experience. Originally designed by Michael Tilson Thomas, this series transforms concert spaces into immersive, intimate environments—turning venues like Zellerbach Hall into a nightclub-style atmosphere, complete with curated visuals and relaxed seating. Imagine sitting on a velvet couch, cocktail in hand, while world-class musicians surround you with an exhilarating, genre-defying soundscape. It’s a truly multidimensional way to experience music, and I was honored to be a part of it.
Expanding the Classical Canon
This program was more than a performance—it was an act of rediscovery and advocacy for voices that deserve greater recognition in the classical world. Many of these pieces had never been performed by the San Francisco Symphony before, and even for me, some were first-time encounters. It was an opportunity to share new perspectives with audiences and challenge our own perceptions of what American classical music can be.
I also had the privilege of performing alongside the incredible soprano Ariana Rodriguez in a deeply moving art song cycle. Additionally, Wade in the Water, a stunning clarinet-piano duo, blended spiritual traditions with modernist influences, adding another layer of depth to the evening.
The Future of Concert Programming
As musicians and cultural institutions continue to evolve, programs like SoundBox raise essential questions: How do we engage modern audiences? How can we push the boundaries of tradition while staying true to the spirit of classical music? This event exemplified how concert experiences can unite past and present, heritage and innovation, in ways that deeply resonate with audiences.
I hope this marks just the beginning of a broader conversation about expanding classical music’s horizons and celebrating the diverse voices that shape its future.
Photo credit: Don Leach
Thank you, LA Times!
I was honored that my recent performance with BalletX at the Laguna Dance Festival received notable recognition in the Los Angeles Times. Reflecting on the experience, I shared, “Everyone on stage here is telling a story in how they feel about this music, either through movement, or, in my case, sound.”
