Sound Collective

The Emory Sound Collective is Emory’s newest ensemble, dedicated to the most adventurous sounds and exploratory artistic experiences. Taking inspiration from the high-voltage energy of a rock band, the precision of a chamber group, and the big sound of a symphony orchestra, this auditioned ensemble engages with groundbreaking works from the 1950s to the present. Through this repertoire, members will develop mastery in interpretation, rhythm, and—most importantly—the cultivation of their own unique artistic identity.

Course Content

Emory’s new-music ensemble, Emory Sound Collective, can be taken by instrumentalists, vocalists and electronic musicians who are interested in exploring today’s contemporary soundscapes. With a focus on contemporary classical music, it will be a comprehensive exploration of the style which also encompasses improvisation, curation, collaboration, artistic entrepreneurship and concert presentation.

The course will at its core be performance-based, where throughout the semester students will curate a unique performance experience and will learn skills in production, marketing and audience engagement that go hand-in-hand with being a self-managing musician in the 21st century. There will be a focus on presenting works from the existing canon of 20th and 21st century masterpieces alongside the latest compositions being composed today including new commissions written specifically for the ensemble. In addition to studying the music itself, students will examine the social, political, and cultural contexts in which contemporary classical music is created and performed.

Topics such as gender representation, globalization, and the role of technology in music production will be explored through readings, guest lectures, and class discussions. Performance experiences will be given in conventional and non-conventional concert spaces, with a focus on developing sonic expression and artistic identity. By the end of the module, students will have developed the critical listening skills and theoretical framework necessary to analyze, interpret and present contemporary classical music with depth, nuance and insight. Students will be equipped with the most relevant skills that they need to present concert experiences beyond the corridors of the university. 

Enrolment by instructor permission, requiring audition.

Students interested in the Emory Sound Collective can email Prof. Andonovska at liljana.andonovska@emory.edu for information regarding auditions and ensemble assignments.