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Zoe Keating: Breaking the Mold

Trista Bernstein on June 17, 2011
Zoe Keating

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On June 24 and 25, Magik*Magik will take the stage for another unforgettable performance pushing classical music forward. But this time, it will likely outdo itself in its effort to break the mold of classical music, for this time it will be led by Zoe Keating and will perform in the Great American Music Hall.

Keating has been at the forefront of the DIY artist movement for years. Her layering of cello through a foot-controlled laptop has made her a beloved, one-woman orchestra. For her upcoming performance she asked to be joined by another cutting-edge orchestra, Magik*Magik. Annie Philips gushed that when she received the request she felt “like just like a fan.” Keating had tweeted about Magik*Magik the last time she was in San Francisco, and the group did not miss the shout-out.

Despite their elation to be performing together, they have yet to rehearse. Annie explained that all communication, to date, has been via email. “She’s on tour and we’re rehearsing next week.” Magik*Magik, though, has certainly heard Keating’s playing as they approach the concert. “Her recordings are really fun to listen to.”

Minna Choi, the artistic director of Magik*Magik Orchestra, is arranging three of Keating’s works for the collaboration. A sextet will take the stage with the star performer at Great American Music Hall, creating what may well feel like a full symphony for Keating’s previously solo works. “I’m excited to hear what it sounds like live,” Philips explains, “with a wider range of instrument colors.” No doubt this will be a concert not to be missed.