Fuse Project — Ten Days of What’s New!

From February 1–11, Symphony Space celebrates the creative process by throwing open our doors to composers, musicians, actors, writers, and thinkers who are pushing the boundaries of innovation. Newly commissioned works, New York premieres, and the launch of a brand new podcast series (soon to be announced!) are all part of this this exciting first installment of the Fuse Project!

The thing that thrills me the most about the performing arts is the promise of the new. Witnessing a performer taking risks and pushing the boundaries — that, for me, is the essence of what makes live performance… alive. It’s something that’s in the moment, something that is unique, and something to be celebrated.

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that this is my passion. After all, I first came to New York to study music composition at Columbia University, and I was originally drawn to arts programming because I wanted to bring the experimental and contemporary music I loved to a wider audience. Since then I have broadened my programming interests, but my enthusiasm for the new and challenging hasn’t dimmed.

When planning my first season at Symphony Space, I was keen to foster a spirit of risk-taking across all programming areas. I encouraged the directors of our literature, film, and performing arts programs to spread the word to our network of artists that we were looking for new and bold projects. I was delighted with the enthusiastic response.

And that is how the Fuse Project was born.

Some highlights include:

New music advocate and viola virtuoso Nadia Sirota — “a one-woman contemporary-classical commissioning machine” (Pitchfork magazine) — introduces us to her circle of artist friends with a week-long residency of performances, film screenings, and conversation.

World premieres of Symphony Space commissions by two of my favorite composers: Pulitzer Prize winner David Lang and Donnacha Dennehy.

Neuroscientist Leslie Vosshall explores ground-breaking discoveries in the science of smell with a multi-sensory event (including not only words and images but also aromas!)

Over the coming weeks, I will be introducing you to some of the key figures in the Fuse Project. They’re a fascinating group of cultural trailblazers, and I know you’ll find their work stimulating and exciting.

In the meantime, I encourage you to explore what’s being offered in this mini Festival, and hopefully I’ll see some of you here.

Have a great Thanksgiving holiday!