Grace Goudy Distinguished Artists Series

On Wednesday, November 6th, 7:30 p.m. in Willamette University’s Rogers Music Center, Hudson Concert Hall, the Grace Goudy Distinguished Artists Series presents composer and multi-instrumentalist Angélica Negrón.

Puerto Rican-born composer and multi-instrumentalist Angélica Negrón writes music for accordions, robotic instruments, toys, and electronics as well as for chamber ensembles, orchestras, choir, and film. Her music has been described as “wistfully idiosyncratic and contemplative” (WQXR/Q2-New York) while The New York Times noted her “capacity to surprise.” Negrón has been commissioned by the Bang on a Can All-Stars, Kronos Quartet, loadbang, MATA Festival, Brooklyn Youth Chorus, Sō Percussion, the American Composers Orchestra, and the New York Botanical Garden, among others. She has composed numerous film scores, including Landfall (2020) and Memories of a Penitent Heart (2016), in collaboration with filmmaker Cecilia Aldarondo. She was the recipient of the 2022 Hermitage Greenfield Prize. Upcoming premieres include works for the Seattle Symphony, LA Philharmonic, NY Philharmonic Project 19 initiative and multiple performances at Big Ears Festival 2022. Negrón continues to perform and compose for film.

The first half of the concert will feature three separate works, all involving solo instruments in conjunction with electronics. The pieces are: “ Iniri”, “El Ruido de Mis Ojos” and “Disco Giratorio” performed respectively by two brilliant artist associates: cellist Kathryn Brunhaver, tenor- saxophonist Jonathan Hart, and Willamette University pianist, senior Trinity Goff. The second half of the concert Negron will take over and present a collection of her works with an eclectic assortment of instruments, many of which she has invented.

Angélica will give a presentation on her music and her Wednesday concert on Tuesday, November 5th, 11:20 a.m. in the Rogers Music Center. She will also answer questions from students and attendees. The Salem and Willamette community are all invited to attend and observe. Admission is free.