YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University’s College of Arts and Science culminates the Formosa Quartet’s McAndless residency with a performance, “The American Mirror Project | An American Mirror,” at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, at McKenny Hall Ballroom, 878 W. Cross St. in Ypsilanti.
“The ‘American Mirror Project | An American Mirror’ is a celebration of diversity, history, and the power of music to connect us all,” said Jim Egge, associate dean for programs at EMU’s College of Arts and Sciences. “We are thrilled to host such a thought-provoking and culturally enriching experience by The Formosa Quartet as part of our McAndless residency.”
The Formosa Quartet is an acclaimed American string quartet, first prize, and Amadeus Prize winner at the 10th Wigmore Hall International String Quartet Competition. The quartet’s residency at EMU is scheduled for April 1-6. The residency includes a series of conversations, open rehearsals, and performances designed and performed in part by EMU faculty and students.
The finale performance includes a program that investigates the complexities of American music, challenging audiences to reimagine what defines it. Through a diverse selection of familiar and unfamiliar pieces, the Formosa Quartet hopes listeners will explore the rich tapestry of America’s musical heritage and the contributions of often-overlooked voices.
“As both a musician and educator, I am grateful to present ‘The American Mirror Project | An American Mirror’ alongside my colleagues,” said Deborah Pae, Formosa Quartet cellist and associate professor of Cello at EMU. “It has been an absolute pleasure to utilize music as a way to explore the multifaceted narratives within American music with the EMU Community. We aim to foster dialogue that celebrates inclusivity and cultural richness, and this endeavor has been incredibly fulfilling.”
Inspired by Derrick Skye’s “American Mirror,” the program celebrates the ongoing amalgamation of cultures that have shaped the nation’s soundscape, including refugees, immigrants, enslaved peoples, and Indigenous peoples. The program is colored by the vivid sounds of disparate American eras and landscapes and by the people who are integral to but often overlooked throughout society. This exploration acts as a mirror reflecting the vibrant musical identity of America today.
Following the performance, the EMU Foundation will host a reception where audience members can mingle with the artists.
Tickets are available free of charge on the webpage and parking is also complimentary. For more information about the Formosa Quartet and a full list of events, visit the McAndless website.
About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University’s Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University’s website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.
Main photo by Sam Zauscher
