Boston Conservatory at Berklee Presents Wind Ensemble: Heavy Metal (and Wood)

Boston Conservatory at Berklee’s fall Center Stage season will kick off on Thursday, September 29 with Wind Ensemble: Heavy Metal (and Wood), a concert featuring woodwind, brass, and percussion students playing works by Frank Zappa, John Mackey, Sally Lamb McCune, Katahj Coley, and Steven Bryant.

Led by accomplished conductor, clarinetist, and Boston Conservatory Chair of Instrumental Studies Matthew Marsit, this multigenre concert will showcase the versatility of the ensemble as they recreate heavy metal, rock ‘n’ roll, funk, and groove with the traditional timbres and harmonies of wind instruments.

“Music serves so many roles in our lives. It can feed our soul, serve as a salve on an emotional wound, or just inspire us to dance and feel good,” said Marsit, who also serves as artistic director of the Charles River Wind Ensemble and has performed with the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, Fairmont Chamber Orchestra, and the Baltimore Symphony. “Whether you’re a fan of heavy metal, the sounds of the traditional wind ensemble, or an inventive concert experience, this performance will have plenty of moments that surprise, fulfill, inspire, and delight.”

In addition to the classic instrumentation of the wind ensemble, Wind Ensemble: Heavy Metal (and Wood) brings together elements of surround-sound electronics, electric guitar, rock drum kits, and light displays to create an elevated and nuanced production distinct from the standard ensemble performance. Audience members will hear compositions of “Asphalt Cocktail” by John Mackey, “Ecstatic Waters” by Steven Bryant, “Haywire” by Katahj Copley, “Dog Breath Variations” by Frank Zappa, and “Caveat” by Sally Lamb McCune.

Admission is free, but tickets are required for all attendees; they can be found here. Concertgoers with photosensitivity are advised that this performance uses flashing light displays.

Explore more performances in Boston Conservatory’s fall Center Stage season.