On Friday, March 4, the Classical Revolution Phoestival celebrated Phoenix’s debut as the newest city in the expanding Classical Revolution network. Held in conjunction with the First Friday art walk in downtown Phoenix, the free three-hour Phoestival featured large and small music ensembles performing on four stages. The majestic Trinity Episcopal Cathedral hosted the event. Highlights of the evening’s performances were a demonstration of Trinity Cathedral’s imposing twenty-six rank pipe organ, and an open rehearsal of the Grammy award winning Phoenix Chorale.
Classical Revolution is a national partnership of musicians whose mission is to get live concert music out of concert halls and into cafes, coffee shops, and bars where it can be enjoyed without the pretense and stuffiness that is often associated with classical music.
Begun in 2006, the movement takes its name from the Revolution Café in San Francisco, where local classical musicians began hosting weekly open mic nights and informal jam sessions. Since then, the grassroots “bringing music to the people” idea has inspired chapters in cities across the U.S. and Europe, including Seattle, New York, Chicago, Toronto, Berlin, and Belgrade.
Phoenix is the fifth most populated city in the United States, yet seems to lack a deep appreciation for “high culture” art forms that are embraced and celebrated by other large cities. Classical Revolution PHX hopes to change the way art and music are presented and enjoyed in our city by showcasing all forms of art, old and new, in casual and fun venues.
The next Classical Revolution event features Paradise Winds at the Tempe Historical Museum on April 2 at 7pm. This concert will showcase new works by local composers, including two world premiers. The Lost Leaf Bar and Gallery also hosts performances every Second Sunday, 7-9pm. For more information, visit www.classicalrevolutionphx.org.
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