“Worden is a creative chameleon with endless wells of technical skill … one of the most astounding voices in all of indie rock.” —Pitchfork
“A potent melding of classical poise and alt-pop punch, this dreamy song cycle [Penelope] was the year’s most affecting creation.” —Time Out New York
This elegantly woven two-part program begins with the Midwest premiere of composer Sarah Kirkland Snider’s vivid song cycle Penelope, performed by Shara Worden and New York’s most in-demand new music ensemble, yMusic. Inspired by Homer’s Odyssey—but drawn from the perspective of Odysseus’ wife, with lyrics and concept by playwright Ellen McLaughlin—this “gorgeous netherland between richly orchestrated indie rock and straight chamber music” (Pitchfork) is a mesmerizing meditation on memory, identity, and what it means to come home. The evening concludes with the versatile Worden joining conservatory-trained/pop-savvy yMusic for an intoxicating mix of cabaret, opera, chamber music, and rock. Each program half will also feature several new works written by an eclectic mix of today’s leading composers. Copresented with Liquid Music, a new Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra concert series.
