Internationally acclaimed veterans of contemporary music, Sirius Quartet creates unforgettable musical events that combine exhilarating repertoire with unequaled improvisational fire. The group’s forward-thinking,multi-genre approach includes collaborations in post-rock, avant-jazz and electronic music. Having premiered works by the likes of Phil Kline, Uri Caine and Richard Einhorn, Sirius pushes beyond the conventional vocabulary of string instruments with bold, original works by its own members, incorporating improvisation, extended techniques and undeniable grooves.

Amma is a victim of domestic abuse and faces a life or death decision: let go of life or fight for survival. She represents those who are, were, or on the way to experience domestic violence. Amma’s Chasm is a call to the community compelling them to speak out, lift each other up, and mend wounds, bringing light to the darkness of domestic violence. Collaborating with community activists and artists, southern Maryland-based dance artist Monique Newton Walker explores perspectives, outcomes, and healing around domestic violence in her mixed-media dance residency.

Kings and Queens is a multi-disciplinary project designed to highlight the contributions of African-American artists to the beloved musical genre: Rock n’ Roll.  The project will combine monologues, live music, projections, dance and discussion honing in on artists such as Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Jimi Hendrix, Big Momma Thorton, Bo Diddley, Louis Gordon and others.  Beyond noting the practice of cultural appropriation, the project will illustrate the influence of black musicians on their white successors like Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and Led Zeppeli

2017 Concerto Competition winner Timothy MacDuff performs Ernest Bloch's Suite for Viola and Orchestra, followed by Shostakovich's landmark Symphony No. 5.