Here Be Monsters w/Convergence

I've long been a fan of Tetractys' work in the Austin arts community. Between my serving as a guest adjudicator for their annual composition contest, having some of my composition students' work performed by the group, and a Covid-postponed stint as a guest conductor, my experience collaborating with them is that they are a standout among the many new music ensembles that have emerged in Central Texas over the past half-decade. While not a few of these acts could be rightly accused of riding the coattails of those who have dedicated themselves to the Austin contemporary music scene for many years, Tetractys is the real deal.

Tetractys has been meticulously planning an epic new works showcase for over a year. When the invitation arrived, I immediately reached out to my Convergence partner, Cameron Beauchamp, about the possibility of performing at this event. As luck would have it, the event coincided with a break in his busy touring schedule with Roomful of Teeth, so we were all systems go.

I composed a new work entitled loup garou (based on the legendary Quebecois werewolf of the same name of which I heard stories during my Maine childhood), and Cameron and I set to rehearsing. We showed up to the sold-out show at Austin’s Butterfly Bar, taking in some of our friends like Density512, Montopolis, Invoke, LOLA, One Ounce Opera and more before taking the main outdoor stage ourselves. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Loup garou is a loud and noisy work, and yet we managed to win over the crowd.

Congratulations to our Tetractys friends for a fantastic event. I can’t wait to see what they have in store next.