Simone Dinnerstein’s PS 321 Neighborhood Concerts will present “Face the Music,” an ensemble of 20 classically-trained musicians ranging from sixth to 12th grades dedicated to performing today’s most compelling and creative new music, in a concert called “Beating Down the Doors,” April 15, 7 p.m. at PS 321, 180 Seventh Avenue in Park Slope.
A chart-topping pianist, Dinnerstein founded this series at the public school her son attends and where her husband teaches. The performances, which feature musicians she has admired and collaborated with during her career, is open to the public and raises funds for the school’s Parent Teacher Association. The musicians performing donate their time and talent to the program.
The centerpiece of the concert is the world premiere of “Liquid Timepieces” by composer and PS 321 faculty member Joseph C. Phillips, Jr. The teen members of “Face the Music” will also present four of their favorite works: Graham Fitkin’s sax-heavy “Mesh” (1992), Marcelo Zarvos’ foot-stomping “Memory” from “Nepomuk’s Dances” (2002), Nico Muhly’s stop-and-start “How About Now” (2006) and Jacob TV’s “Lipstick” (1998), with a playback mix based on clips from American talk shows.
Face the Music’s young players will talk to the audience between pieces and take questions at the end of the concert, making this an excellent opportunity for families with children.
Tickets are $15; visit www.ps321.org or www.simonedinnerstein.com.
