In Conversation with Kim Tan
Nataraja, curated by Forest Collective's Kim Tan (pictured), intertwines themes of creation, destruction, suffering, and renewal through the scintillating sounds of flutes, cello and piano.
I asked Kim a few questions to find out about her inspirations and how to get our ears ready the performance on May 28.
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Shiva Nataraja is iconically depicted dancing. Is dance or movement important to the program/expressed through the program choices?
Dance is important to me and the way I understand music on a visceral level. I think dance is fundamental to music and these program choices all have a strong sense of movement and gesture.
Around this time last year I suffered a stroke and couldn't pick up my flute, let alone play it. This program is a celebration of being able to play again; the pieces all have themes of internal struggle, renewal, and the fragility of life.
As a trio, flute, cello and piano can create magical and alluring sounds. What do you think audiences might hear during 'Cendres’?
The title, Cendres or Ashes, is evoked in many textural ways throughout this piece. Saariaho has taken inspiration from her alto flute and cello double concerto entitled "à la fumée" or "to smoke". You can hear smokeyness, sizzling embers, licks of flames that fragment to dust.
Can you share any recommendations for songs we might listen to as inspiration or to get into the vibe for the performance?
Definitely listen to Saariaho's double concerto, "à la fumée". There are parts of Nataraja that remind me of Olivier Messaien's "le merle noir", so that is another great work to hit up.
Performing with you are two equally exceptional musicians in pianist Danaë Killian, and cellist Rosanne Hunt. We’ve got some well known pop culture trio’s listed below - can you tell us which group best fits the musicians of Nataraja?
1. Buffy, Willow and Xander (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)
2. Sabrina, Jill and Kelly (Charlie’s Angels)
3. Blossom, Bubbles and Buttercup (The Powerpuff Girls)
4. Beyonce, Kelly and Michelle (Destiny’s Child)
5. Shrek, Donkey, and Puss in Boots (Shrek 2)
Oh, definitely Buffy. Because we slay.
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