The Contemporary American Music Festival Attracts a Large Audience

The Canberra International Music Festival showcased a mesmerizing concert of modern music at the James Fairfax Theatre in the National Gallery of Australia. The concert, titled “American Modern,” featured works by American composers Steve Reich and Meredith Monk, as well as Australian-Dutch composer Kate Moore.

The evening began with a captivating performance of Reich’s Clapping Hands by Roland and Florian Peelman, who used only their hands to create a phasing effect that was truly mesmerizing. This was followed by Kate Moore’s reflective piece, Spin Bird, beautifully played on piano by Roland Peelman.

Bulgarian guitarist Pavel Ralev then took the stage to perform Reich’s Electric Counterpoint on acoustic guitar, creating a sonic impact that left the audience in awe. The Peelman brothers returned to perform Monk’s Gotham Lullaby, showcasing their skill and artistry.

The highlight of the evening was Reich’s Different Trains, performed by the Dudok Quartet Amsterdam. This powerful work, comparing train journeys during World War II, was a poignant reminder of the atrocities of the past.

The concert coincided with Dutch Remembrance Day, adding an extra layer of significance to the performance. The audience was treated to iconic works of the late 20th century, played with extraordinary skill by the talented artists.

Overall, the concert was a memorable and moving experience, showcasing the power of modern music to evoke emotion and provoke thought. The audience left the theatre feeling inspired and enriched by the incredible performances.