Hayes Street presents innovative multi-instrumentalist and composer Henry in the 9th edition of its YOLO Solos Series. Henry Liang will present a set of original music featuring the Japanese shō – a free-reed bamboo mouth organ first used in the Imperial Court music of Japan (Gagaku) during the 7th century, listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Henry’s practice spans ancient traditions to contemporary and experimental music, composing new music for shō with both modern and traditional instruments. His works have been premiered at events including the Australian Flute Festival (2015,2019), Ensemble Offsprings Open Mic (2018), and in venues including the National Opera Center in New York and Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.
Joined by pianist Lee Dionne and flautist Rosie Gallagher, the program will feature American composer Valerie Coleman’s stirring ‘Wish’ Sonatine and a ‘house special’ solo piano showpiece.