The Experience
Relâche opened Philadelphia’s ears to new music — non-academic music composed by living composers like Robert Ashley, Arvo Pärt, Steve Reich or the late John Cage — with an emphasis on pushing a “downtown” genre. Until early in the 20th century, audiences heard new works live, and Relâche has been recreating that experience for nearly a quarter century.
Relâche’s signature list includes Pauline Oliveros’ The Well, Thomas Albert’s A Maze With Grace, Terry Riley’s In C and Cage’s Fontana Mix. Some of its recent works appear on Grammy-nominated recordings: Fred Ho’s Contradiction Please! and Michael Nyman's HRT. The Relâche “sound,” colored by its unusual instrumentation, is instantly recognized around the world.
History
Relâche is named after Paris’ 1924 riot-causing dadaist ballet by Jean Börlin, Francis Picabia and Eric Satie. Since its 1979 founding by Joseph Franklin and Joseph Showalter, Relâche has launched and supported composers and musicians such as Aaron Kernis, Guy Klucevsek and Marc-André Hamelin. Under Thaddeus Squire, current artistic and executive director, Relâche will premiere a number of new commissions in each of the upcoming seasons (September through June).