Part of Tippet Rise’s new Wander series, the innovative Sandbox Percussion will perform two Tippet Rise Commissions and World Premieres written by composers Amy Beth Kirsten and Douglas J. Cuomo, each written in response to sculptures on the land by artist Mark di Suvero. Beginning at Beethoven’s Quartet, Sandbox Percussion will premiere holy sonnet, a new work by Kirsten, known for her theatrical compositions and described by BBC Music Magazine as “one of America’s most innovative and visionary composers.” From there, musicians and audience members will hike together approximately one mile to Mark di Suvero’s Proverb. The ensemble will then perform a new work entitled Proverb by Douglas J. Cuomo, known for a range of expressive compositions written for the concert, opera, and theatrical stage, as well as for television and film. We are thrilled to welcome Sandbox Percussion, composed of members Jonny Allen, Victor Caccese, Ian Rosenbaum, and Terry Sweeney, back to Tippet Rise for the third time – a group always eager to perform in nature and to explore the many synergies between art and landscape.

Wander series: Sandbox Percussion

Tippet Rise Art Center

Sandbox Percussion opens the Classically Uncorked series with a dynamic program of new music and Bravo! Vail premieres, including works by Amy Beth Kirsten, David Crowell, Juri Seo, Viet Cuong, and Sandbox founder Victor Caccese.

Bravo! Vail’s Classically Uncorked returns with three bold chamber music programs cocurated and performed by Sandbox Percussion, a contemporary percussion quartet known for its visually and auditorily stunning presentations. Each Classically Uncorked program offers a unique chamber music experience with handcrafted wines and cabaret-style seating in the gorgeous Donovan Pavilion.

EPSG:4326

Classically Uncorked I: Sandbox Percussion

Donovan Pavilion

Among our most distinctive chamber music voices, Jonathan Biss applies his prodigious technique, artistic maturity, and eloquence to a recital program that ranges from Schubert and Schumann to a myth-inspired work by Amy Beth Kirsten—”one of America’s most innovative and visionary composers” (BBC Music Magazine)—before culminating in the triumphant and ecstatic radiance of Beethoven’s Op. 110.

Jonathan Biss, piano

Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts

The Musicians from Marlboro touring program has been lauded as a “virtual guarantee of musical excellence” (Washington Post). Some of the most outstanding Marlboro performances from recent years share this program with compelling contemporary works by Amy Beth Kirsten and past Marlboro participant Paul Wiancko.

Musicians from Marlboro III

American Philosophical Society

### Infernal Angel & Savior - Curtis Institute of Music

**Date:** May 10, 2025  
**Time:** 7:00 p.m.  
**Location:** Curtis Institute of Music, Gould Rehearsal Hall

#### Event Description:
Immerse yourself in the captivating series finale of the Curtis New Music Ensemble's centennial celebration, featuring the world premiere of Amy Beth Kirsten's "Infernal Angel." Renowned for her innovative compositions and multi-talented artistry, Kirsten’s work has earned accolades from BBC Music Magazine and prestigious organizations like the American Academy of Arts and Letters.

"Infernal Angel" delves into the life of medieval knight turned serial killer Gilles de Rais, offering a profound exploration of his dark legacy. This premiere is paired with Kirsten’s theatrical piece "Savior," inspired by the legendary Joan of Arc. Together, these works promise a thrilling fusion of music and theater that you won't want to miss.

#### Program:
- **AMY BETH KIRSTEN**
  - **Infernal Angel** (World Premiere)
  - **Savior**

#### About the Composer:
Amy Beth Kirsten is celebrated as one of America’s most innovative and visionary composers. Her body of work spans eighteen years and includes roles as composer, poet, filmmaker, vocalist, and director. Kirsten has received numerous awards and fellowships from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, John S. Guggenheim Foundation, and the Rockefeller Foundation. She has created collaborative works for ensembles such as HOWL, musicians of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the New World Symphony, and the multi-Grammy-winning eighth blackbird.

In addition to her faculty appointment at the Curtis Institute of Music, Kirsten is the director of the Artist Residency at Longy School of Music of Bard College and a composer mentor for the Blueprint Fellowship at the Juilliard School.

#### Tickets:
Subscribe now to the 2024-25 season to secure the best seats at the best prices. Don’t miss this extraordinary event that promises to be a highlight of the Curtis Institute of Music’s centennial celebration.

**Subscribe Now** to ensure your place at this unforgettable performance.

Amy Beth Kirsten

Events

Upcoming events

May 10, 2025

Infernal Angel & Savior · Curtis Institute of Music

Past events

Sep 2, 2023

Wander series: Sandbox Percussion · Tippet Rise Art Center

Aug 1, 2023

Classically Uncorked I: Sandbox Percussion · Bravo! Vail Music Festival

About

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