AVIDduo, featuring flutist Brittany Primavera and saxophonist Jeffery Kyle Hutchins, stands at the forefront of contemporary music, actively shaping the future soundscape for their unique instrumentation. Far from relying solely on existing works, this dynamic ensemble is dedicated to the robust expansion of the flute and saxophone repertoire through strategic commissions, profound collaborations, and lasting partnerships with composers and institutions alike. Their mission is not merely to perform music, but to create it, cultivating a vibrant and ever-evolving body of work that explores extended techniques, electronic music, and the boundless expressive possibilities of their combined instruments.
The Necessity of Creation: Why New Repertoire Matters
The flute and saxophone duo, while possessing immense sonic potential, is a relatively nascent combination in the classical music world. This presents both a challenge and a thrilling opportunity: a scarcity of existing works, yet vast, unexplored territory for pioneering ensembles like AVIDduo. By commissioning new pieces, they not only fill this gap but also encourage composers to explore novel sonorities, textures, and compositional approaches specific to their unique blend of timbres. This proactive approach ensures the repertoire grows organically, reflecting contemporary musical trends and pushing artistic boundaries.
Strategic Commissioning: A Blueprint for Growth
Commissioning new works is the cornerstone of AVIDduo's repertoire development. This meticulous process requires careful planning.
Identifying Composers: AVIDduo actively seeks composers whose aesthetic aligns with their artistic vision, from established figures to emerging voices. Research involves attending concerts, reviewing scores, and engaging with academic communities. They prioritize composers keen to explore the unique sonic palette of flute and saxophone, including extended techniques and the integration of electronics.
Securing Funding: Commissions require significant financial investment. AVIDduo leverages various funding avenues: grants, university commissions, private donor support, and crowdfunding. Crafting compelling proposals that articulate artistic merit and societal impact is crucial for securing these funds.
The Commissioning Agreement: A clear, detailed agreement is essential. This document outlines the work's scope, length, instrumentation, premiere date, performance rights, honorarium, payment schedule, and score delivery deadlines. Transparency and mutual understanding foster a productive relationship from the outset.
The Art of Collaboration: Shaping Sound Together
AVIDduo engages in deep, iterative collaboration with composers, fostering a creative partnership that goes beyond a transactional relationship.
Open Dialogue and Workshops: Throughout the compositional process, AVIDduo maintains open communication. They may conduct workshops or reading sessions, performing fragments or sections for the composer. This allows for immediate feedback on playability, balance, and expressive impact, exploring instrument-specific possibilities and discussing notation.
Balancing Vision and Practicality: While respecting the composer's artistic vision, AVIDduo offers practical insights into what is achievable and effective. This delicate balance ensures the piece challenges performers yet remains musically viable, often leading to innovative solutions neither party might have conceived independently.
Embracing Extended Techniques and Electronics: AVIDduo encourages composers to explore the full spectrum of their instruments' capabilities, including multiphonics, key clicks, air sounds, and various timbral manipulations. They often work together to integrate live electronics, fixed media, or interactive elements, pushing the boundaries of their sonic landscape.
Fostering Lasting Partnerships: Beyond the Premiere
AVIDduo understands that a commission is merely the beginning. Sustaining the life of new music requires ongoing commitment and strategic partnerships.
Long-Term Composer Relationships: Building trust and a shared artistic language often leads to multiple commissions with the same composer, allowing for deeper exploration and a coherent artistic trajectory.
Institutional Partnerships: Collaborations with academic institutions, music festivals, and concert presenters are vital. Universities may offer residencies or performance opportunities, while festivals provide platforms for premieres and repeat performances. These partnerships help disseminate the new repertoire and provide essential resources.
Dissemination and Advocacy: AVIDduo is committed to ensuring new works are heard and made available. This includes professional recordings (such as their album 'Interactions'), high-quality video performances, and advocating for score publication. By championing these works beyond their own performances, they contribute to the broader musical ecosystem and encourage other ensembles to take up the new repertoire.
Practical Advice for Aspiring Ensembles
For other duos or ensembles looking to embark on a similar journey:
- Define Your Aesthetic: Clearly articulate the kind of music you wish to champion.
- Network Actively: Connect with composers, presenters, and other musicians.
- Start Small: Begin with short pieces or collaborations with emerging composers.
- Be Transparent: Maintain clear communication regarding expectations, finances, and timelines.
- Seek Diverse Funding: Explore grants, private donors, and community support.
- Document Everything: High-quality recordings and videos are crucial for promotion.
- Be Patient and Persistent: Building new repertoire is a long-term, rewarding endeavor.
Conclusion
AVIDduo's dedication to building a new repertoire for flute and saxophone exemplifies a proactive and innovative approach to contemporary music. Through strategic commissioning, deep collaborative spirit, and commitment to fostering lasting partnerships, Brittany Primavera and Jeffery Kyle Hutchins are actively shaping the future of chamber music. Their work enriches the artistic landscape, providing composers with new avenues for expression and audiences with compelling, boundary-pushing musical experiences. AVIDduo continues to solidify its role as a vital contributor to the ongoing evolution of contemporary music.