The [Switch~ Ensemble] is a performing arts group of 10 musicians. In 2020, we're doing what we've always done: connecting artists with the support and technical resources they need to thrive and bring new work to life.
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When we founded [Switch~] in 2012, our vision looked toward the future, integrating technology and live performance. We never expected we would find ourselves in the middle of a pandemic and a quarantine. But using technology to bring vivid, compelling performances to life is part of [Switch~]'s DNA, and we're excited to use this expertise to get composers and performers back to doing what they do best: bringing new works to life, just for you. Will you join us and make a gift to support our 2020-21 season?
(Please note: to make a tax-deductible contribution, you must kindly donate via our 501c3 fiscal sponsor Fractured Atlas by clicking here, instead. Your gift still counts toward our goal and you still get the perks listed at right! See FAQ below for more on this)
In Fall 2020, our performances will be remote and livestreamed, developed collaboratively and telematically. (What's "telematic"? Read on, below!). These aren't just conventional concerts "now online", they're a dedicated new way of thinking about and making music.
We're designing new works specifically for this situation, using software tools to help musicians play together across physical distances. We've commissioned a new work by Zachary James Watkins and are collaboratively developing works among the players and composers in the ensemble. [Switch~] will present 2 telematic performances in the first half of our season, plus fully remote workshops and telematic performances in residence at Mahidol University, University of Missouri, and UT Austin.
We're optimistic we can get back to playing in 2021, and have a long list of extraordinary commissions and premieres to share with you, including Anne Leilehua Lanzilotti's hānau ka ua, Katharina Rosenberger's Up Close, and new works by Kelley Sheehan and Anna-Louise Walton. Your support goes directly to artist fees and composer commissions.
Is my gift tax-deductible?
Yes, it can be, but you must make your gift via our 501c3 fiscal sponsor Fractured Atlas, instead. To make a tax deductible gift, please visit: http://www.switchensemble.com/support/ and you’re just one click away! And, don’t worry, your gift will still be counted here toward our goal—and you’ll still receive the great perks you see. Questions on this? Please don't hesitate to reach out to [email protected].
What’s Fundly?
Fundly is a payment processor designed for fundraising campaigns. They provide a suite of web tools to get the word out about our season, and safely and securely process your credit card transaction. That lets us keep our focus on what we do best—making music!
I didn't get an email confirmation for my donation?
Sometimes it takes Fundly a few hours to process, and sometimes it goes to spam. Feel free to email us if you still haven't received something. But, please remember your gift is only tax deductible if you donate via our 501c3 fiscal sponsor Fractured Atlas (see above).
How are you playing concerts in quarantine?
Great question! We’re so glad you asked. We’ve been working all summer to plan and design repertoire that can be performed telematically. Telematic musical collaborations have a fascinating history and have evolved alongside video communications platforms.
Earlier this summer we ran a community survey to help understand how patrons connect with livestreamed performances, and learn what makes them most compelling and engaging to access.
Concerts will be broadcast on a streaming service like YouTube live, assembled with tools like Max, Zoom, and StreamYard. You’ve probably noticed how it’s hard to stay in sync with other people on video chat. Same problem for musicians! So, we’re working with entirely new repertoire that responds to the current situation. All the pieces we’re premiering this Fall are made with quarantine in mind, and respond to questions of timing and coordination in unique, innovative ways.
When are your in-person concerts?
We’re hoping we’ll be back to playing in-person by sometime in Spring 2021. We’ve got so much great music we can’t wait to play! As we all navigate this pandemic, we're waiting to set our Spring concert dates, to prioritize health and safety for all. Our venue contracts and project funding are flexible, so we can plan our timeline accordingly.
What if you can't play in-person for a while?
In that case, we'll continue with livestreamed and telematic performances into Spring 2021, building on our work in the Fall. We're in investing in telematic performing for the long haul, since we know this might be our "new normal" for quite some time. These telematic performances aren't just placeholders, but something we're developing as a viable and compelling artistic practice at the intersection of music & technology.
Want to learn more about the ensemble? Of course you do. Visit: switchensemble.com. [Switch~]'s 2020-21 season is supported in part by the MAP Fund, the Ernst Von Siemens Musikstiftung, Pro Helvetia, the Amphion Foundation, and generous donors like you.
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