Hailed by The New Yorker as “vibrant” and “superb,” Third Coast Percussion explores and expands the extraordinary sonic possibilities of the percussion repertoire, delivering vibrant performances for audiences of all kinds. Since its formation in 2005, Third Coast Percussion has gained national attention with concerts and recordings that meld the energy of rock music with the precision and nuance of classical chamber works.

These “savvy and hyper-talented young percussionists” (Musical Toronto) champion the awe-inspiring works of John Cage, Steve Reich, George Crumb, Arvo Pärt, Gérard Grisey, Philippe Manoury, Wolfgang Rihm, Louis Andriessen, Toru Takemitsu, and Tan Dun, among others. Third Coast has also commissioned and performed world premieres by today’s brightest up-and-coming composers, including David T. Little, Marcos Balter, Matthew Barnson, Ted Hearne, and ensemble member David Skidmore.

In this performance, the ever-inventive Third Coast Percussion brings the idea of using a single type of material in performance—a wood table, in the case of Belgian composer Thierry de Mey’s piece, and a drumhead in Donnacha Dennehy’s new work inspired by playing techniques of the Irish bodhrán drum. The ensemble rounds out the program by honoring Steve Reich’s 80th birthday with his iconic Sextet.

THIERRY DE MEY Table Music
DONNACHA DENNEHY Surface Tension (Chicago premiere, commissioned for Third Coast Percussion)
STEVE REICH Sextet

Open to the public. Tickets $5 for students, $25 for non-students. Buy tickets here.

Sponsored by the Global Voices Performing Arts Series and UChicago Presents.