Kassia Music is a dynamic ensemble renowned for its captivating performances and innovative programming, blending classical traditions with folk and rhythmic influences from around the globe. Founded in 2016 by composers Sam Post and Bernard Vallandingham along with clarinetist Lauren Geist, Kassia Music infuses their works with a fusion of diverse musical elements that mesmerize audiences worldwide.
Sam Post's compositions draw inspiration from a myriad of musical styles, seamlessly weaving together the intricate harmonies of Bach with contemporary rhythms ranging from tango to pop to ragtime. Notably, Sam's creative journey once led him to collaborate with the daughter of a legendary dombra player from Kazakhstan, a connection that fueled his exploration of diverse musical landscapes.
In contrast, Bernard Vallandingham's compositions are deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Eastern European music, paying homage to masters like Bartok and Prokofiev, while embracing the region's vibrant folk traditions. An exciting development on the horizon for Bernard is the performance of his Quartet #3 at Carnegie Hall scheduled for April 2024, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Since its inception, Kassia Music has graced prestigious venues such as the Kennedy Center, the National Music Festival, and the National Gallery of Art. Their exceptional talent has earned them top honors at the Misbin Memorial Chamber Music Competition in consecutive years, showcasing their versatility across various instrumental combinations. Kassia have also completed residencies at the Avaloch Farm Music Institute each summer since 2021.
The ensemble's composers have been commissioned by esteemed institutions including the San Francisco Symphony and members of the NY Philharmonic, while its members have garnered recognition as finalists in international piano and chamber music competitions.
Beyond the concert hall, Kassia Music serves as the ensemble-in-residence at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Bethesda, MD, enriching the community beyond its performances. Their dedication to music education is evident through initiatives such as chamber music workshops, coaching sessions for aspiring instrumentalists and composers, and “Kassia Kids” concert openers. Kassia was also the featured guest ensemble in Levine Music’s 2023 “Composition Weekend” where they performed and critiqued student works and gave a performance of their own.
With a steadfast commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement, Kassia Music continues to engage audiences and inspire the next generation of musicians in the DC area.
Sam Post's compositions draw inspiration from a myriad of musical styles, seamlessly weaving together the intricate harmonies of Bach with contemporary rhythms ranging from tango to pop to ragtime. Notably, Sam's creative journey once led him to collaborate with the daughter of a legendary dombra player from Kazakhstan, a connection that fueled his exploration of diverse musical landscapes.
In contrast, Bernard Vallandingham's compositions are deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Eastern European music, paying homage to masters like Bartok and Prokofiev, while embracing the region's vibrant folk traditions. An exciting development on the horizon for Bernard is the performance of his Quartet #3 at Carnegie Hall scheduled for April 2024, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Since its inception, Kassia Music has graced prestigious venues such as the Kennedy Center, the National Music Festival, and the National Gallery of Art. Their exceptional talent has earned them top honors at the Misbin Memorial Chamber Music Competition in consecutive years, showcasing their versatility across various instrumental combinations. Kassia have also completed residencies at the Avaloch Farm Music Institute each summer since 2021.
The ensemble's composers have been commissioned by esteemed institutions including the San Francisco Symphony and members of the NY Philharmonic, while its members have garnered recognition as finalists in international piano and chamber music competitions.
Beyond the concert hall, Kassia Music serves as the ensemble-in-residence at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Bethesda, MD, enriching the community beyond its performances. Their dedication to music education is evident through initiatives such as chamber music workshops, coaching sessions for aspiring instrumentalists and composers, and “Kassia Kids” concert openers. Kassia was also the featured guest ensemble in Levine Music’s 2023 “Composition Weekend” where they performed and critiqued student works and gave a performance of their own.
With a steadfast commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement, Kassia Music continues to engage audiences and inspire the next generation of musicians in the DC area.