Nakatani Gong Orchestra

The first set will feature an improvisational collaboration with Tatsuya Nakatani on percussion, Jon Byler Dann on standup bass and Yea Big (Stefen Robinson) on bass clarinet. A dynamic solo percussion performance by Tatsuya Nakatani follows. After a brief intermission, the concert will feature a performance of the entire gong orchestra, composed of 16 volunteer Central Illinois musicians.

About Tatsuya Nakatani:
Active internationally since the 1990s, composer and artist of sound, Nakatani has released over 80 recordings and tours extensively, performing over 150 concerts a year. His primary focus is his solo work and his large ensemble project, the Nakatani Gong Orchestra. He teaches master classes and lectures at universities and music conservatories around the world. Originally from Japan, he makes his home in the desert town of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. With his activity in new music, improvisation and experimental music, Nakatani has a long history of collaboration.

Nakatani’s distinctive music centered around his adapted bowed gong, supported by an array of drums, cymbals, and singing bowls. In consort with his personally hand-carved Kobo Bows, he has spent decades refining and developing his sound as an arrangement of formations of vibrations, incorporated in shimmering layers of silence and texture. Within this contemporary work, one can still recognize the dramatic pacing, formal elegance and space (ma) felt in traditional Japanese music.

This event will likely sell out, so purchase your tickets early. To accommodate as many guests as possible, concert style seating will be offered for this unique event. There will be no tables on the floor. Water and Pop for $1.00 will be offered at the bar. Attendees may bring their own drink or bring drink from the Rhythm Kitchen on the 1st floor.