Join Monk Rowe and The Five Families Ensemble for an engaging program of classic instrumental works and original compositions. The backstory behind the composers’ intent and choice of title will be explored and an audience member will provide a name for an untitled new Monk composition. Admission is free.

Instrumental music compositions are written for a variety of reasons. The initial inspiration may be profound or practical, just as the meaning behind a particular tune can be obvious or nonexistent. A mostly abstract art form, instrumental music is often difficult to title. Monk Rowe and his dynamic chamber group will perform engaging classic tunes and original work and provide the backstory behind the title and composer’s intention. An untitled, premier performance will be named by an audience member.

The Five Families Ensemble includes: Kristen Kopf, cello; Liz Simchik, violin; Scott Rutledge, trumpet; Evan Duchene, drums; and Monk Rowe, saxophone, keyboard.

This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrants Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts, with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, and administered by CNY Arts.