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Eighth Blackbird Premieres Joseph Schwantner's Rhiannon's Blackbirds in Richmond

Oct. 01, 2006

The modern music ensemble eighth blackbird will present the world premiere of Joseph Schwantner's Rhiannon's Blackbirds on October 12 at the Modlin Center for the Arts at the University of Richmond. Schwantner provides an explanation on the work’s thematic origins:

"Rhiannon, horse goddess ('Great Queen') from Welsh mythology and protector of the earth and fertility, was accompanied by three magical Blackbirds whose enchanting songs sung at twilight could "awaken the dead and lull the living to sleep." The Blackbirds of Rhiannon (also known as 'Druid Dhubh' or Black Druid) possess supernatural powers that often symbolize the flight of spirits to the Otherworld. They are one in a series of five totem animals central to the Celtic Druid tradition."
Eighth blackbird commissioned Rhiannon's Blackbirds as part of their wider program entitled "Strange Imaginary Animals." In this program the group looks to "explore new territories in music that through otherworldly sounds will stake their claim to their own unique sonic space." Hailed by the New York Times as "the picture of polish and precision," eighth blackbird will be performing Rhiannon's Blackbirds throughout their current nine-month tour of the United States.

For more information on Joseph Schwantner please visit www.schott-music.com.

Additional information on eighth blackbird can be found at www.eighthblackbird.com.

Visit modlin.richmond.edu for more on the Modlin Center for the Arts at the University of Richmond.

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