The Wordless Music series is back and more ambitious than ever this spring and summer, and the whole of the music loving world is better off for it
Among all of the cures currently being sought for classical music’s perceived malaise, finding a way to attract the interest of younger listeners is viewed as perhaps the single most desirable panacea. Some institutions have simply slapped a fresh coat of paint on the old jalopy; others let teens have a hand in programming. All could benefit from taking a closer look at the Wordless Music Series, founded last year..
Wordless Music, a series now in its second season, is an experiment in genre mixing that has shown what can be done when you value imagination more than formats and rules. Usually matching rock bands with classical chamber groups, the program has built a following among young listeners on both sides of the street.
Ross says everyone has something to gain from the Wordless Music Series. The rock crowd can enjoy music free of chatter and the sound of clinking beer bottles. And classical musicians can expose their music to a new audience.