the biophony project
Réfréner
Réfréner attempts to construct methods of group interaction and listening that enable improvisation across different rhythmic textures while retaining a core melodic character. It is inspired by my ongoing research into the social and geographic movements that shaped the genesis of swing in America in the early twentieth century. The title comes from the etymology of the word “riff”- a shortening of refrain, from the French Réfréner. It was commissioned by Metropolis Ensemble for Biophony 2021.
Meet the Composer Team
Explore More Biomes
Each Biome represents a small group collaboration between 2-4 composers commissioned to create flexible, open-score pieces for outdoor performance and infinite combinations of instruments.
“Biophony" is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.