"New Music for Two Voices" is a collaboration between sopranos Susan Narucki and Kirsten Ashley Wiest, featuring performances of commissioned works alongside iconic modern works from the 20th century and from earlier historical periods. The April 16 concert features the world premiere of NauðaR Níu [The Nine Needs] for two sopranos and percussion by American composer Jeffrey Holmes. Nauðar Níu refers to a particular magic charm, evoked through ancient Runic ritual and incantation. Holmes' text utilizes Runic inscriptions and carvings from the 5th to 12th centuries, eliciting an icy landscape of mythical beings, evoked through a unique compositional language: modal melodies, unique microtonal tunings and writing for the singing voice that is compelling and powerful. Both singers will play a variety of small percussion instruments made of natural materials upon which Runic inscriptions were carved: wood, stone, skin, iron, and bone. Nauðar Níu [The Nine Needs] weaves together past and present, logic and magic, in an otherworldly musical journey. The concert also includes music by Hildegard von Bingen, selections from Pascal Dusapin's Two Walking, and music by Henry Purcell accompanied by pianist Kyle Adam Blair. UC San Diego Department of Music on Facebook / Instagram
