The Looking Glass a performance by Electirc Labaratory Chamber Orchestra at Union Project

Union Project is pleased to welcome Electric Laboratory Chamber Orchestra to the stage to present "The Looking Glass." One of Pittsburgh most versatile orchestras, ELCO makes it their mission to tear down distinctions of genre and demolish preconceived notions about music by presenting a repertoire spanning from the Middle Ages to present day, placing emphasis on classical, modern classical, and pop music. The music of The Looking Glass takes its inspiration from the Pop Art, Op Art, and Minimal Art of the late 1960s in order to explore the musical connections between Classical Minimalism, Jazz, Funk, and Contemporary Dance Pop. Throbbing, pulsating beats, hypnotic cycles of melody, and sweeping instrumental soundscapes are the hallmark sounds of The Looking Glass. In this endeavor the Electic Laboratory Chamber Orchestra presents music that focuses on pulse and repetition, with a spotlight on the music of Philip Glass and other so-called minimalist composers. Unlike the much of the modern classical music which preceded it, minimalist music often emphasizes a recognizable pulse and tonal melodies, with a clear connection to pop music and the music of various non-western traditions (indian classical music, Indonesian gamelan, African drumming, etc.) We highlight the connections of this music to pop art and the loft party culture that spawned it by presenting it alongside transcriptions of jazz, pop, and New Wave music.

Don't miss this chance to see an innovative performance by a group that is unique to the Pittsburgh music scene. All proceeds from this performance will go to further the mission of Union Project: Making space to connect, create, and celebrate community.