Relevant Tones: Seattle Modern Orchestra

Founded in 2010, Seattle Modern Orchestra (SMO) is the only large ensemble in the Pacific Northwest solely dedicated to the music of the 20th and 21st centuries. Led by co-artistic directors Julia Tai and Jérémy Jolley, SMO commissions and premieres new works from an international lineup of composers, in addition to presenting important pieces from the contemporary repertoire that are rarely if ever heard by Seattle audiences.

The ensemble “operates at that exciting cusp between old and new, between tradition and innovation” (Vanguard Seattle) curating new sounds and experiences for concert goers in the region.

I sat down with Jérémy and Julia to discuss the collaborative relationship they’ve forged together, the formation and history of Seattle Modern Orchestra, their bold and barrier-breaking strategies in reaching new audiences and performers, and some of their favorite concerts from the past 14 years. 

You can listen to our conversation here.

FEATURED MUSIC:
Andrew Waggoner, Guitar Concerto (mvt. 1)
George Lewis, Artificial Life 2007
Andrew Waggoner, Piano Concerto, II. Hands of the Sisters (Death and Night)
Earle Brown, Oh, K