Beginning with the bass clarinet’s debut in 1836, composers recognized the rich and majestic voice of this new instrument as a ticket to otherworldly and celestial realms. Joined by mezzo soprano Julia Scozzafava and pianist Robert Pherigo, Thomas Aber will present a roughly chronologic voyage, travelling with the deep and evocative sound of the bass clarinet from London in 1836 to Paris in 1897 and then on through England during the early 20th century, ending in Albania and Belarus in the 21st century.

Thomas Aber, a founding member of the newEar contemporary chamber ensemble, is the bass clarinetist with the Omaha Symphony.  Julia Scozzafava, mezzo-soprano, has been a frequent performer on both the operatic and concert stage for the past 19 years. Robert Pherigo is a composer, pianist, tenor and conductor. He was a member of newEar Contemporary Music Ensemble for 15 years, exploring the music of today’s composers.