A new orchestra debuts in Poughkeepsie

April 11, 2023
10:29 pm

Music Director and Conductor David Rudge. Photo provided by Erehwon Ensemble

POUGHKEEPSIE- The Erehwon Ensemble, a new professional chamber orchestra, will give its inaugural concert at Christ Episcopal Church on Carroll Street in Poughkeepsie on Sunday, April 23rd at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Con Brio series. The group is comprised of 22 musicians versed in a variety of styles.

“It’s an ensemble of very talented performers and we are excited to make music together,” says Music Director and Conductor David Rudge. “Many of our musicians can also improvise and will be featured in that capacity.”

While most music groups specialize in music from a particular genre or era, this flexible and diverse ensemble is committed to pushing the boundaries of classical music with repertoire ranging from early music to classical, folk, and the music of today. The orchestra’s name is derived from the anadrome of both nowhere and now here.

“Our name reflects our vision: to transcend regionalism and embrace music’s profound ability to connect us to the present moment,” said Rudge.

At the launch concert, the orchestra will present a program of eclectic and colorful string orchestra works ranging from bright and energetic compositions such as Vivaldi’s Concerto for Strings and Mendelssohn’s String Symphony No. 5 to deeply dramatic music by Shostakovich and music improvised in the moment. Erehwon Ensemble will also perform two rarely heard gems from Spain and Argentina: Joaquin Turina’s The Bullfighter’s Prayer and Alberto William’s Primera Suite Argentina. The concert will come to a head-banging conclusion with the rhythm and blues inspired Skylife by David Balakrishnan featuring experienced improvisors.

“The music for this concert was written by a priest, a Soviet, an 11 year old prodigy, a Spanish Impressionist, the Father of Argentinian music, and a jazz violinist,” says Rudge. “It’s a varied program of works by well-known composers as well as rarely played gems by unfamiliar names—and all of it wonderful!”

Tickets range in price from $10 to $20 and are available for purchase at the door or by visiting www.erehwon-ensemble.com.