The Anderson Gallery will host the premiere of a new composition by Nathan Felix for 16 pianos performed in an immersive environment by the Drake University Piano Program. This is a historic performance, the first of its kind, not only in Iowa, but in the country. With 16 pianos, it will be one of the largest “original” piano compositions to be performed live—ever! This immersive composition will be performed in and around the Anderson Gallery allowing the audience to walk amongst the pianos and performers. The soundscape installation will also incorporate the experimental videos of Felix.

Felix, who premiered his immersive opera, The Cadence of Life, with the Drake Opera Program last fall, is known for his guerilla-style approach in presenting classical music in unconventional spaces including work with multiple pianos. 16 Pianos in Surround Sound will be performed by Dr. Nicholas Roth and Drake University students from his piano studio. The ensemble is rounded out with Drake music professors Susan Ihnen, Ling-Yu Hsiao and Rika Uchida. This unique concert that blurs the bounds of music, installation and performance art is made possible by the Friends of Drake Arts. The piece will be performed on March 20 and 21 at 7:30 pm. Performances are free and open to all. More information can be found here.

— Lilah Anderson, Anderson Gallery