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Flutes and trombones will share the stage at Lawrence University's Conservatory of Music as part of a concert premiering nine new works. The event, scheduled for November 1st at Memorial Chapel, is free to the public and marks the conservatory's 150th anniversary celebration.

The concert, titled "150th Crescendo: Convergence – New Music Concert," will showcase three pieces each for flute and trombone ensembles and three combining both groups. This initiative is led by professors Erin Lesser, Michael Clayville, and Tim Albright.

"Creating something entirely new—without historical reference or standard techniques—pushes us in exhilarating ways," said Erin Lesser. The process has been described as a thrilling endeavor that explores uncharted musical possibilities.

The project involves nearly three dozen students from both ensembles. Bianca C. Pratte '20, Lawrence’s sight-singing instructor, will join them on flute. Students have rehearsed extensively for this event, including a retreat at Lawrence's Björklunden in Door County.

Michael Clayville emphasized the collaborative aspect of the project: “We encourage our students to approach this experience as an exploration.” He added that each composition offers unique challenges and opportunities for discovery.

Tim Albright highlighted the importance of creativity and flexibility in bringing new music to life: “To bring new music to life requires dialogue, creativity, and flexibility."

The collaboration originated with Isaac Mayhew ’17 from the Millennium Composers Initiative (MCI), which aims to push musical boundaries through experimental means. This led to a natural partnership between the Flute Ensemble co-directed by Clayville and Lesser and the Trombone Ensemble directed by Albright.

Nine composers from around the world are contributing their works to fill a repertoire niche where combined flute-trombone compositions are scarce. These include David Acevedo, Ali Balighi, Ty Bloomfield, Michael Kahle, Chelsea Majkut, Treya Nash, Helder Oliveira, Sofia Jen Ouyang, and Ben Zucker.

Lesser expressed hope that the concert would offer something for everyone: "What I hope is that this concert has something for everyone—both players and audience."

Incorporating elements like animal sounds into compositions adds an innovative touch. For instance, one composer sent marbles along with instructions on how they can mimic frog sounds.

“I think allowing students to spend time with this music will give them some insights into what is possible out there,” said Clayville.