Underwood New Music Readings: Composer Spotlight - David Hertzberg
Composer David Hertzberg is one of the seven selected composers for ACO's 24th annual Underwood New Music Readings on May 6 and 7. His piece, Spectre of the Spheres, which draws its titled from Wallace Stevens' The Auroras of Autumn, seeks to "create something that moves and breathes like the unfettered Aurora, with a reckless vitality, inexorably, and of its own mystical accord." Read his full program note here.
David was kind enough to answer some questions for SoundAdvice.
Composer David Hertzberg
What was your reaction to finding out your piece had been selected for the Underwood New Music Readings?
I was thrilled to hear that my piece had been selected for the Underwood readings, and am very much looking forward to working with Maestro Manahan, the orchestra, and mentor-composers Gabriela Lena Frank, Kevin Puts, and Derek Bermel. I have always admired the American Composers Orchestra, not just for its artistry, but as one of few ensembles of its size dedicated exclusively to the music of our time. I look forward to their interpretation and insight.
What preparations are you making ahead of the readings with the American Composers Orchestra?
Most of the preparation took place a few months ago when I was touching up the score and parts. Right now I am in Hong Kong rehearsing for a performance with the fabulous Tanglewood New Fromm Players at Hong Kong City Hall Theatre.
Follow David on Twitter andSoundcloud
www.davidhertzbergmusic.com
Public funds are provided by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, and the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, Office of Brooklyn Borough President Reynoso, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
