Concert at Blackerby

April 8th, 7 - 8:30

Amorsima Trio is a boundary-pushing ensemble that redefines the traditional expectations of a string trio, bringing a fresh and contemporary perspective to the stage. Comprised of violinist Mia Detwiler, violist Michael Capone, and cellist Kourtney Newton, the trio was founded in 2016 through a shared passion for new music. With an unwavering commitment to expanding the string trio repertoire, the Amorsima Trio actively commissions new works, seeking out collaborations with innovative composers.

Amorsima Trio's recent projects demonstrate their artistic versatility and dedication to celebrating music in all its forms. Notably, in 2021, they premiered 21 miniatures in response to Beethoven's 250th anniversary, showcasing their ability to engage with classical traditions while infusing them with their own creative vision. In 2022, they were awarded a Classical Commissioning Grant from Chamber Music America to work with composer Chaz Underriner to premiere a new work for string trio, video, and electronics. They have served as ensemble-in-residence at the University of Louisville New Music Festival and the Tarrant County College Summer Composition Workshop and have performed as a featured ensemble at Mise-en Music Festival, New Music Gathering, the University of Louisville New Music Festival, New Music on the Bayou, the International CEMICircles Festival of Experimental Music and Intermedia, and the Electric LaTex Festival.

The name, "Amorsima," originates from Greek, meaning "that which does not come from fate." Inspired by the Xenakis work Morsima-Amorsima, the name embodies their fearless pursuit of musical discovery and their rejection of predestined paths. It symbolizes their constant exploration of new horizons, as they navigate uncharted musical territories and captivate audiences with their adventurous spirit.

About the concert

For our April concert, “Under the Eclipse,” we’ve selected six works for various combinations of violin, viola, and cello, all related to the celestial bodies. Chant-like melodies, conversational music, and a whirling cello solo will separate the three trios of the evening.

We’ll open with an evocative trio by Jessica Meyer, based on an ode by Rumi, “I Only Speak of the Sun.” Alternating between glittering textures and moments of emotional depth, the piece will close with an exciting perpetual motion finale. Johanna Beyer’s “Music of the Spheres” is the first work written by a female composer for electric instruments, dating back to 1938. We are adapting it for strings and triangle - you’ll also hear the cello roar like a lion! Finally, we will present a brand new work by Albanian composer Aleksandër Peçi, titled “Eklips Diellor,” (Solar Eclipse) written for us in honor of the upcoming eclipse.