Futurists Look Back: 'Child's Xmas,' Consort

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The wind through the trees made noises as of old and unpleasant and maybe web-footed men wheezing in caves. — "A Child's Christmas in Wales"

HAD WELSH POET DYLAN THOMAS known his paean to Christmases past would be set to orchestration by a future new-music ensemble, he might have lingered on that line a little longer. The 21st Century Consort, the Smithsonian's new-music ensemble in residence since 1978, is hip to the sound of wind and wheezing noises.

On Saturday, the chamber orchestra will present a reading of Thomas' holiday story set to the music of Welsh and American composers Peter Warlock, George Crumb and Paul Schoenfield. Public radio personality Martin Goldsmith narrates, and soprano Mary Bonhag lends a voice to the proceedings.

Known for performing contemporary compositions with titles like "Fantasy Quintet for Piano and Computer" and "Cosmic Dances for Amplified Piano, Four Hands," the consort often couches its concerts within a familiar framework; sometimes to confounding effect, but always with the intention of exploring a new idea.

The acclaimed ensemble, under the helm of founder and artistic director Christopher Kendall, has for three decades largely succeeded in its efforts.

"Kendall's genius is in putting together combinations that are unexpected and, on their face improbable, but that really work," Consort manager Peter Robinson says.

According to Kendall, the Consort will consider works written within the last 100 years, musical or otherwise.

"A Child's Christmas in Wales" is within the borders of the past century, so I consider it fair game," Kendall says.

In its second season at the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Nan Tucker McEvoy Auditorium, the Consort is properly situated amid all manner of American cultural achievement.

"The auditorium is beautiful and has great clarity ... everything sounds crisp and clear," Robinson says. "The hope is that people will not only come to hear the music, but will stick around and discover the museum as well."

» Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G streets NW; Sat., 4 p.m. discussion; 5 p.m. concert; $16-$22; 202-633-3030. (Gallery Place-Chinatown)

Written by Express contributor Johnathan Rickman
Photo courtesy 21st Century Consort