Chicago Sun-Times and suntimes.com Tuesday January 31, 2011 2:34AM CST
CSO composers Bates and Clyne signed for two more years
BY ANDREW PATNER
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s two popular Mead composers in residence Mason Bates, 35, and Anna Clyne, 31, have had their contracts extended for two years through the 2013-14 concert season.
In a statement, CSO music director Riccardo Muti said, “They each have a unique voice. I am very proud that we have brought such fine young composers to Chicago and am happy that they will stay with us for two additional years.”
Since taking over curating duties last season for the CSO’s new music series MusicNOW, Bates and Clyne have driven a decided uptick in attendance at these concerts.
The Bay Area-based Bates has established connections with area DJs and clubs, and even persuaded Muti to spend an electronica evening at a late night event he produced here.
Clyne, a Briton who now lives in Chicago, has been heavily involved in CSO youth education projects including working alongside Muti with incarcerated young women at the Illinois Youth Center in suburban Warrenville.
Both composers have Muti-commissioned world premières on the CSO’s February programs. Bates recorded sounds at Fermilab in Batavia for Alternative Energy to be heard on this week’s subscription concerts beginning Thursday. Clyne’s Night Ferry, inspired by the life of Schubert, is on the programs beginning February 9.
Both works are to be played by Muti and the CSO on the orchestra’s upcoming California tour.
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