Axe ’Em, Jacks!
NACOGDOCHES, Texas – Dr. James Vilseck, adjunct professor of percussion at Stephen F. Austin State University, will present a recital featuring a variety of styles and energy levels when he performs at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, in Cole Concert Hall on the SFA campus.
Composers whose works will be included on the program are Alejandro Viñao, Andy Akiho, Ella Macens, John Psathas, Javier Alvarez, Robert Oetomo and Elliott Carter.
“There is no specific theme for the recital, other than great percussion music,” Vilseck said. “For all of my recitals, I try to find a wide variety of music that will entertain an audience. This means a variety of styles and energy levels. Luckily for percussion recitals, this also means a variety of instruments. From one piece to the next will be a completely different sound, meaning there is more variety than your typical music recital.”
Vilseck also programmed works from a variety of composers representing diverse and varied backgrounds. Additionally, the program features a mix of works he has performed in the past alongside newer works he’s never performed.
“The goal was to present a challenging program that will push myself without sacrificing audience entertainment,” he said.
The program features “Koolish Zein” by John Psathas. It was originally written for percussion soloist, percussion quartet and electronics, but Vilseck will perform the first movement titled “Her Alchemy” as a solo version with electronics.
“The piece is highly energetic with blazing fast runs up and down the keyboard instruments and a heavy groove from the electronics,” he said. “I have greatly studied Psathas’ works in my career and always look forward to sharing the music.”
Another work that includes electronics is the snare drum solo “Stop Speaking” by Andy Akiho that uses an electronic voice from a voice-to-text software program on Mac computers.
“The voice talks of its own creation and existence on top of Akiho’s unique writing style, making this a unique snare solo,” Vilseck explained. “I will also perform a second of Akiho’s works, ‘Murasaki.’ Part of his Synesthesia Suite and representing the color “purple” (quite appropriate for SFA), the work presents a relaxing reggae on lead steel pan reminiscent of the music of Bob Marley.”
Concert tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and $3 for students and youth. To purchase tickets, call the SFA Fine Arts Box Office at (936) 468-6407 or visit finearts.sfasu.edu. For additional information, contact the SFA School of Music at (936) 468-4602.