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 diverse musical elements. Sam Post's compositions seamlessly weave together the harmony and counterpoint 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 different 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. Bernard's Quartet #3 was recently performed at Carnegie Hall, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Since its inception, Kassia Music has performed at venues such as the Kennedy Center, the National Music Festival, and the National Gallery of Art. They won first prize 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 in the summers of 2021-2023. Recently Kassia Music gave their radio debut on WETA's "Front Row Washington", showcasing the best live performances from the DC area.
The ensemble's composers have been commissioned by orchestras and chamber groups all over the country, 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.
Kassia Music serves as the ensemble-in-residence at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Bethesda, MD, enriching the community beyond its performances. As part of their residency, they run chamber music workshops, coaching sessions for aspiring instrumentalists and composers, and open all their concerts with “Kassia Kids” student performers. 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 is a leading chamber group in the DC area.
Founded in 2016 by composers Sam Post and Bernard Vallandingham along with clarinetist Lauren Geist, Kassia Music infuses their works with diverse musical elements. Sam Post's compositions seamlessly weave together the harmony and counterpoint 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 different 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. Bernard's Quartet #3 was recently performed at Carnegie Hall, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Since its inception, Kassia Music has performed at venues such as the Kennedy Center, the National Music Festival, and the National Gallery of Art. They won first prize 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 in the summers of 2021-2023. Recently Kassia Music gave their radio debut on WETA's "Front Row Washington", showcasing the best live performances from the DC area.
The ensemble's composers have been commissioned by orchestras and chamber groups all over the country, 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.
Kassia Music serves as the ensemble-in-residence at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Bethesda, MD, enriching the community beyond its performances. As part of their residency, they run chamber music workshops, coaching sessions for aspiring instrumentalists and composers, and open all their concerts with “Kassia Kids” student performers. 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 is a leading chamber group in the DC area.
