Sunday night at the Goethe Institut Boston witnessed a mesmerizing performance by Collage New Music, where six contemporary compositions wove together personal narratives through innovative instrumental techniques. The concert, titled "Between Words & Worlds," showcased exceptional artistry and a meticulously curated program that captivated a packed audience. Conducted with elegance by German-Colombian artist Anna Handler, the evening's pieces ranged from explorations of rebirth to underwater soundscapes, each offering a unique auditory journey.

The Art of Rebirth and Underwater Exploration

Opening the concert was Kareem Roustom’s Xarja, a composition that transported listeners from death to rebirth. The duo of percussionist Craig McNutt and soprano Tony Arnold set an impressive tone for the evening. Their impeccable synchronization and dynamic interplay created a powerful narrative, culminating in a resonant D major chord symbolizing renewal. This piece highlighted the performers' virtuosity and their ability to evoke profound emotional responses through unconventional rhythms and textures.

Gabriella Smith’s Anthozoa followed, immersing the audience in an underwater world inspired by field recordings. Conductor Anna Handler led this ensemble piece with remarkable finesse, blending natural elements with musical innovation. The piece began with soft, swaying sounds, reminiscent of coral reefs, and evolved into rhythmic sections that felt both infectious and danceable. The climax featured a breathtaking moment of resolution, leading to a final deep A major chord that contrasted beautifully with the opening. This composition showcased the ensemble's versatility and creativity, capturing the essence of nature through sound.

Innovative Instruments and Complex Narratives

Olga Neuwirth’s Magic Flu-ldity introduced a curious combination of flute and unconventional instruments like a typewriter and wine glass. Flutist Sarah Brady and percussionist Craig McNutt delivered a captivating performance, blending traditional and modern elements seamlessly. The typewriter added a genuine percussive texture, while McNutt’s skillful manipulation of water and glass produced ethereal tones. This piece explored the story of the Greek god Aello, combining classical motifs with extended techniques to create a compelling narrative.

Gabriela Ortiz’s El águila bicéfala drew inspiration from Mixtec legends of two-headed birds. The ensemble tackled complex, irregular rhythms with intense energy, delivering jazzy solos and intricate passages. Under Handler’s direction, the musicians navigated the challenging score with precision, creating a dynamic and exhilarating performance. Jingming Gong’s Elegy honored her late grandfather, using sustained polyphony and long melodic lines to portray death in a haunting yet beautiful manner. Finally, Jörg Widmann’s Sieben Abgesänge auf eine tote Linde closed the concert with seven movements that painted vivid sound pictures, evoking the loss of a cherished lime tree. Each section unfolded like a cinematic scene, guided by Handler’s masterful storytelling and Arnold’s dramatic vocal delivery.