Low Blow

On Sunday, November 29, Composers Concordance presents Low Blow, an adventurous afternoon of contemporary music featuring the CompCord Low Brass Ensemble at the legendary Stonewall Inn. Bringing together ten composers and a powerhouse ensemble of horn, trombone, bass trombone, and tuba players, Low Blow celebrates the rich, bold, and often unexpected sonic possibilities of low brass.

A highlight of the program is Gene Pritsker's Remembering Billy Strayhorn, a new composition inspired by musical motifs from the work of the legendary jazz composer, arranger, and pianist Billy Strayhorn. Born on November 29, 1915, Strayhorn was a brilliant creative force behind many of Duke Ellington's most celebrated works. As a gay Black artist navigating the challenges of mid-20th-century America, Strayhorn forged an extraordinary musical legacy while living in a society that often demanded he keep parts of his identity private.

Presenting Remembering Billy Strayhorn on his birthday at The Stonewall Inn carries special significance. An enduring landmark of LGBTQ+ history and a gathering place associated with the struggle for equality, Stonewall provides a powerful setting for a musical tribute to an artist whose life and work helped shape American music. The performance connects Strayhorn's enduring legacy with the continuing celebration of LGBTQ+ creativity, visibility, and artistic freedom.

The evening features music by ten composers: Aaron Alter, Kitty Brazelton, John Clark, Dan Cooper, Gilbert Galindo, Craig Harris, Denise Koncelik, Gene Pritsker, Jay Rozen, and David Taylor. Their diverse musical voices meet in a program showcasing the versatility, depth, power, and expressive range of the low brass family.

The CompCord Low Brass Ensemble features John Clark and Kyra Sims on horns; Craig Harris, Jen Baker, and Nikki Abissi on trombones; David Taylor on bass trombone; and Jay Rozen on tuba. Together, these distinguished performers bring an expansive palette of sounds to an evening that bridges contemporary composition, jazz influences, and the spirit of experimentation that defines Composers Concordance.

With its combination of adventurous new music, exceptional performers, and a meaningful tribute to Billy Strayhorn, Low Blow promises an afternoon of musical discovery in one of New York City's most historically significant cultural spaces.

Event Details
Low Blow

Composers:
Aaron Alter, Kitty Brazelton, John Clark, Dan Cooper, Gilbert Galindo, Craig Harris,
Denise Koncelik, Gene Pritsker, Jay Rozen, and David Taylor.

Performers:
CompCord Low Brass Ensemble:
John Clark, Kyra Sims - horns,
Craig Harris, Jen Baker, Nikki Abissi - trombones
David Taylor - bass trombone,
Jay Rozen - Tuba​

Date: Sunday, November 29, 2026
Time: 5pm
Venue: The Stonewall Inn
53 Christopher Street, New York City