The String Institute Presents:
The Universe Hangs on Sound
Introduction to Modal Improvisation and Indian Ragas
With cellist/instructor Eugene Friesen
and special guest instructor/performer Steve Gorn
Greenfield, Massachusetts
October 7-10, 2011 (Columbus Day weekend)
"The Universe Hangs on Sound"
Join cellist Eugene Friesen and bansuri (bamboo flute) master Steve Gorn for a magical weekend of classes, improvisations, and breathtaking fall foliage in Greenfield, Massachusetts. The weekend will feature concerts by both Friesen and Gorn, plus participatory performances, classes, discussions, and great food.
The Sanskrit proverb "The universe hangs on sound" suggests that the right sound -- in the right place, at the right time -- is what encourages the synchronization of our bodies and minds and nurtures sanity in the world. Tuning into the moment through music and exercising awareness of musical modes is a musician's pathway to expression, communication and self-discovery.
The Sanskrit proverb "The universe hangs on sound" suggests that the right sound -- in the right place, at the right time -- is what encourages the synchronization of our bodies and minds and nurtures sanity in the world. Tuning into the moment through music and exercising awareness of musical modes is a musician's pathway to expression, communication and self-discovery.
Steve Gorn
Steve Gorn’s music arises from the wellspring of Indian classical music, a living tradition rooted in nada yoga (the yoga of sound.) Attuned to the time of day, quality of light and awareness of environment, this music offers a unique sonic landscape for healing arts, yoga and meditation, and is a fascinating resource for today’s improvising musician.
Eugene Friesen
The String Institute director, cellist Eugene Friesen, “…takes the cello beyond its traditional home of the classical ensemble, opening the door to a new era for the soulful instrument" (Digital Audio). Through his unbridled improvisations, original compositions, and international workshops, Eugene Friesen has blazed new trails for classically trained musicians intent on discovering their creative musical voices. The recipient of four Grammy Awards as a member of the Paul Winter Consort, Friesen is a professor at the Berklee College of Music in Boston and an artist-in-residence at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City.
The Pushkin
All events will take place in the newly remodeled Pushkin Gallery, 4 Federal Street, Greenfield, MA. Greenfield’s newest performance venue, The Pushkin is an elegant and stunning venue for the intimacy of Friesen and Gorn’s timeless music. The Pushkin boasts a 40-foot glass ceiling, marble floors, Steinway piano, and a wine/beer bar. It is fully accessible and climate controlled.
From Past Participants ...
"Eugene's String Academy was the best pure music-making I have experienced in many years. His openness, depth of knowledge, and mastery of the cello led everyone to unlock doors to personal expression that will stay open for a long time. This weekend was a gift."
-- Crispin Campbell, Cellist / Educator, Interlochen Arts Academy, Michigan
"A spa for your musicianship as well as your mind and soul."
-- Jeff O'Neil, cellist / music educator, Massachusetts
"Oh, I see how this works. Yesterday you couldn't get me to play a solo, and today
you can't get me to stop!"
-- Janet Haarvig, Cellist and Composer, Montana
"Thank you! Even though our camp finished at 2 p.m. on Monday, I was on a musical high
until I went to sleep Tuesday night. The inspiration from camp has stayed with me,
and I have even discovered a new part of myself that had been suppressed for a long time.
The workshop was the perfect environment for me to discover, be supported, and to explore my uninhibited musical personality. It has changed my life forever. THANK YOU!!!"
-- Cindi Kornhaus, New Jersey
"Eugene ... thank you so much for sharing your phenomenal artistry with Missoula, Montana!
I think all of the workshop participants came away with new and renewed spirits
and affection for our instruments and for pursuing our own voices. Brilliant modeling,
great practice tools, strong guidance and encouragement for personal reflection,
helpful feedback ... WOW! Hope we get to have you back soon."
-- Beth Youngblood, Montana
-- Crispin Campbell, Cellist / Educator, Interlochen Arts Academy, Michigan
"A spa for your musicianship as well as your mind and soul."
-- Jeff O'Neil, cellist / music educator, Massachusetts
"Oh, I see how this works. Yesterday you couldn't get me to play a solo, and today
you can't get me to stop!"
-- Janet Haarvig, Cellist and Composer, Montana
"Thank you! Even though our camp finished at 2 p.m. on Monday, I was on a musical high
until I went to sleep Tuesday night. The inspiration from camp has stayed with me,
and I have even discovered a new part of myself that had been suppressed for a long time.
The workshop was the perfect environment for me to discover, be supported, and to explore my uninhibited musical personality. It has changed my life forever. THANK YOU!!!"
-- Cindi Kornhaus, New Jersey
"Eugene ... thank you so much for sharing your phenomenal artistry with Missoula, Montana!
I think all of the workshop participants came away with new and renewed spirits
and affection for our instruments and for pursuing our own voices. Brilliant modeling,
great practice tools, strong guidance and encouragement for personal reflection,
helpful feedback ... WOW! Hope we get to have you back soon."
-- Beth Youngblood, Montana
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS • String Institute, October 7-10, 2011 in Greenfield, Massachusetts
Friday, October 7, 8PM: “Soul of the Cello.” Eugene Friesen in concert.
Saturday, October 8:
9:30AM – Free Improvisation & Introduction to Modes – Eugene Friesen
12PM – Lunch (group meal)
1:30PM – Drones and Polyrhythms – Eugene Friesen
3:30PM – Tea
4:30PM – Combining Modes & Modal Progressions – Eugene Friesen
6PM – Dinner break
8PM – “The Universe Hangs on Sound” – concert/meditation featuring Steve Gorn, bamboo flutes, with Eugene Friesen, cello and Fellows of The String Institute.
Sunday, October 9:
10AM – Indian Raga Singing – contemplative “call and response” practice revealing the melodic architecture of raga, its form, and its spiritual roots. – Steve Gorn
1PM – Lunch break
2:30 – Discussion, coached improvisations, rehearsals
6PM – Dinner (group meal)
8PM – Participant Performance and Jam – solos, duets, trios, special guests.
Monday, October 10:
9:30AM – The Creative and Collaborative Musician – Eugene Friesen
12PM – Closing Lunch (group meal)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TUITION
Fellows: (full participants) $350
Associates: (auditors) $250
(Fees include performances, classes, tea, two lunches and one dinner.)
LODGING
The String Institute can offer room and board for a small number of Fellows. These spaces are available on a first-come-first-served basis in a comfortable country setting with extraordinary views of the autumn foliage of the eastern Berkshires.
Lodging for three nights, including all meals: $300.
Major hotel chains as well as several bed-and-breakfast inns are located in Greenfield and vicinity. We will be happy to give you recommendations … however, please keep in mind that this is the busiest tourist weekend of the year and BOOK EARLY!
Friday, October 7, 8PM: “Soul of the Cello.” Eugene Friesen in concert.
Saturday, October 8:
9:30AM – Free Improvisation & Introduction to Modes – Eugene Friesen
12PM – Lunch (group meal)
1:30PM – Drones and Polyrhythms – Eugene Friesen
3:30PM – Tea
4:30PM – Combining Modes & Modal Progressions – Eugene Friesen
6PM – Dinner break
8PM – “The Universe Hangs on Sound” – concert/meditation featuring Steve Gorn, bamboo flutes, with Eugene Friesen, cello and Fellows of The String Institute.
Sunday, October 9:
10AM – Indian Raga Singing – contemplative “call and response” practice revealing the melodic architecture of raga, its form, and its spiritual roots. – Steve Gorn
1PM – Lunch break
2:30 – Discussion, coached improvisations, rehearsals
6PM – Dinner (group meal)
8PM – Participant Performance and Jam – solos, duets, trios, special guests.
Monday, October 10:
9:30AM – The Creative and Collaborative Musician – Eugene Friesen
12PM – Closing Lunch (group meal)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TUITION
Fellows: (full participants) $350
Associates: (auditors) $250
(Fees include performances, classes, tea, two lunches and one dinner.)
LODGING
The String Institute can offer room and board for a small number of Fellows. These spaces are available on a first-come-first-served basis in a comfortable country setting with extraordinary views of the autumn foliage of the eastern Berkshires.
Lodging for three nights, including all meals: $300.
Major hotel chains as well as several bed-and-breakfast inns are located in Greenfield and vicinity. We will be happy to give you recommendations … however, please keep in mind that this is the busiest tourist weekend of the year and BOOK EARLY!
Registration
A nonrefundable deposit of $100 will reserve your space.
Info/registration: Please e-mail Virginia Firestone, or fill out the contact form below:
