Commissions For Now
“Our commitment to present work that highlights underrepresented voices and reflects pressing social issues remains unwavering. The Commission for Now project is a beautiful example of that commitment and we are thrilled to present these dynamic composers who have created this incredible music.” — Katherine FitzGibbon, Artistic Director
Where were you in 2021? Resonance was here.
In the Spring of 2021, as things continued to be challenging for the arts, Resonance Ensemble introduced “Commissions for Now,” a video series that premiered commissioned works from three nationally recognized poets/composers and performed by Resonance artists and collaborators. The series was produced by Oh! Creative and captured by Portland filmmaker Kenny Hamlett.
APRIL 21, 2021
Episode 1: Normal Never Was
WATCH NOW
Jasmine Barnes, an up-and-coming composer based in Dallas, whose multifaceted works frequently address questions of race and religion. Here she sets the powerful words of social activist and writer Sonya Renee Taylor, in “Normal Never Was,” the words that reached thousands of readers in the early pandemic and that Resonance has adopted as its theme for this season, with the permission of Sonya Renee Taylor.
July 3, 2021
Episode 2: We Hold Your Names Sacred
WATCH NOW
Resonance Ensemble, in partnership with Pride Northwest, presents the world premiere of “We Hold Your Names Sacred'' by award-winning composer Mari Esabel Valverde and author/playwright Dane Figueroa Edidi, the first Trans woman of color to be nominated for a Helen Hayes Award.
The filmed premiere, broadcast online for free to audiences worldwide, features 16 singers and reflects on the lives lost due to violence against trans women of color.
How you can help. We believe that art is essential and must be accessible, now more than ever. Please consider making a donation to support our Commissions for Now Series. Your gift will allow us to bring performing art to our community safely and free of charge.
