The Cellar and Point — Fundraiser Show for Fall 2014 Tour
The Cellar and Point is a garage-chamber septet whose musical universe comprises the detail of modern concert music, the improvisational sensibilities of downtown jazz, and the emotional directness of alt-rock. Formed in 2010 by drummer/composer Joseph Branciforte and guitarist/composer Christopher Botta, the ensemble features an impressive cross-section of young talent from NYC’s classical, jazz, and new music scenes. Members of the group also currently perform with JACK Quartet, Mivos Quartet, Ensemble Signal, and Mantra Percussion. Time Out NY’s Steve Smith has described the ensemble’s sound as “ethereal chamber-prog” and lauded their live performance as “brainy, yet highly engaging.”
After three years spent crafting their debut recording, the band will release Ambit on Cuneiform Records in September 2014. Their Firehouse performance will be a special fundraiser concert to raise money for a Northeast tour coinciding with the release. It will also be a rare opportunity to hear individual members of the group presenting solo works and improvisations that depart from the group’s usual repertoire:
- “Violin Octet” for 8 pre-recorded violins and solo violin (excerpt)
written and performed by Christopher Otto
- “A way [tracing]” for solo cello
written by Jason Eckhardt, performed by Mariel Roberts
- “Atom” for solo vibraphone
written by Joseph Branciforte, performed by Joe Bergen
- “Chromatic Etude” for electric bass and electronics
written and performed by Gregory Chudzik
- An improvised solo guitar performance by Terrence McManus
The concert will conclude with the full group performing compositions from Ambit.
Performers:
Christopher Otto, Violin
Mariel Roberts, Cello
Joe Bergen, Vibraphone
Terrence McManus, Electric Guitar
Christopher Botta, Acoustic Guitar
Gregory Chudzik, Electric Bass
Joseph Branciforte, Drums
