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Spectrum Ensemble – Post NMASS Interview

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Spectrum Ensemble is a new music ensemble championing the work of talented LGBTQ+ artists. Based in Denton, TX, the ensemble commissions and performs new music by Queer composers at different points in their careers. 

We were very excited to present some of their unique pieces at NMASS 2020 and have a brief interview with members Stephen Hall and Jaime Esposito.

Ah yes, the three genders  written by Alex Temple

COTFG –
What were your musical or general artistic influences for your NMASS piece or any of your recent work?

Spectrum –
With our mission to promote LGBTQ+ visibility, we look for composers who identify as part of the Queer spectrum. Beyond that, we seek out composers whose previous works we are drawn to, and we try to also represent composers at different points in their careers – from up-and-coming students to established professionals. 

COTFG –
What other ways of expression do you hope to explore using recorded video or live streaming? 

Spectrum –
Recording has allowed us to really focus on the details! We’re able to direct the audience’s attention with details we put on the screen. We also get to be more creative and push the boundaries of the works we perform by incorporating different elements through how we produce the videos. 
It’s an exciting opportunity that we don’t normally have when performing live. Even with our relatively low-tech resources (neither of us is using super expensive equipment, and we edit everything ourselves!) we are producing really cool performances of these great works that our composers wrote for us!

Dorothy Fragments written by Derek Tywoniuk

COTFG –
What have you been listening to lately?

Jaime Esposito –
In my free time I tend to listen to podcasts over music, but lately I’ve been listening to Doja Cat and Erykah Badu.

Stephen Hall –
Lately it’s been a balance of things that bring me peace and life during these crazy times and things that blow my mind. From Jacob Collier to Solange to Jill Scott to Hiatus Kaiyote and so on….

You can see their full NMASS performance here.

Spectrum accepts donations to support future commissions.

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