Opal Ensemble Presents "Sounds and Sights of Arlington" on Saturday, May 9

Opal Ensemble, a trio of professional musicians that champions deserving but neglected music, as well as new works and well-known pieces, will present “Sounds and Sights of Arlington” — a fund-raiser party — from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2015, at the Arlington Center for the Arts Theater (41 Foster Street, Arlington, MA). All proceeds from this multifaceted community arts event, which is open to the public, will support a free lunchtime concert series the Ensemble plans to offer in Arlington as part of its upcoming 2015–2016 season.

Founded in 2012 by Watertown resident and pianist Paul Carlson and Arlington residents Todd Brunel (clarinet) and Anne Black (viola), Opal Ensemble aims to enhance the artistic experience by presenting diverse musical programs that feature works inspired by visual art and poetry. As the centerpiece of “Sounds and Sights of Arlington,” the Ensemble will perform Night of a White Cat by Arlington composer Alan Hovhannes, Focal Point by Lexington composer Pamela Marshall, and Playground Scenes by Boston composer Michael McLaughlin. Jeff Nichols’s Why I Am Not a Painter for speaker, clarinet, viola, and piano will also be performed. Featuring text by Frank O’Hara, this piece will be narrated by actor Robert Bonotto.

The event will also feature dancers from Lynn and Jen’s Dance Studio in Arlington, who will join violist Anne Black for the premiere performance of “Frenzy,” a piece choreographed by Jennifer Corbett with music from Paul Hindemith’s Sonata for Solo Viola, Op.25, No.1. A visual art exhibition and sale, interactive audience art tables, guest speakers, a lively raffle, and food and refreshments will round out the day’s activities.

The recipient of a 2014 Arlington Cultural Council grant, Opal Ensemble has a rich collective experience playing diverse music with the most prominent classical and jazz ensembles in the Boston area. The Ensemble has performed at The First Parish in Lexington Summer Series, Temple Shir Tikva in Wayland Concert Series, Vortex Concert Series at All Saint’s Parish in Brookline, and Arlington Town Hall. For more information, visit www.opalensemble.com.