Dan Visconti, Engaging New Symphonic Audiences

One Symphony with Devin Patrick Hughes

Composer Dan Visconti joins host Devin Patrick Hughes on One Symphony to discuss his innovative approaches to engaging new audiences with classical music. In this in-depth interview, Visconti shares valuable lessons from his wide-ranging collaborations, including projects with incarcerated youth, refugees, and interactive opera productions. He delves into his concept of "civic practice," which involves directly engaging communities in the artistic process to address social issues. Visconti also provides insight into his own boundary-pushing compositions, such as "Low Country Haze" and "Living Language," and the intricacies of cross-genre collaboration. Throughout the conversation, Visconti's deep commitment to expanding the reach and relevance of classical music is evident. He offers thought-provoking perspectives and practical strategies for how orchestras can adapt to the needs and interests of 21st-century audiences. This interview is essential viewing for anyone passionate about the future of classical music and its capacity to inspire positive social change.

00:00 Introduction and Visconti's Early Musical Influences

00:30 The Importance of Play and Discovery in Musical Development

01:47 Visconti's Transition from Violin Performance to Composition

03:30 The Impact of The Beatles and Classical Music on Visconti's Style

04:33 Strategies for Audience Engagement and Defying Conventions

05:02 Visconti's Projects and Experiences in Music and Social Impact

07:39 Harnessing the Power of Music in Civic Practice

08:53 A Case Study: Music Programs for Incarcerated Youth

17:18 The Significance of Music in Community Engagement Efforts

17:34 Designing Interactive Concert Experiences for Modern Audiences

32:43 Balancing Artistic Vision and Practicality in Composition

33:00 "Low Country Haze": A Musical Interpretation of the American Road Trip

38:03 The Dynamics of Collaboration in Music from a Composer's Perspective

42:58 Conclusion: Visconti's Vision for the Future of Music and Collaboration

Thank you for joining us on One Symphony. Thanks to Dan Visconti for sharing his music and wealth of knowledge. You can find more info and connect with Dan at https://www.danvisconti.com

Musical selections on this episode today include

Music Box (River Silver)

Fifth House Ensemble

December 1952

Composed by Earle Brown

David Tudor

Deep Listening - Ione

Pauline Oliveros, Stuart Dempster & Panaiotis

Low Country Haze (Version for Chamber Orchestra)

Scharoun Ensemble Berlin

Drift of Rainbows

Humble Pie

Composed by Dan Visconti

You can always find more info at OneSymphony.org including a virtual tip jar if you’d like to support the show. Please feel free to rate, review, or share the show! Until next time, thank you for being part of the music!