From the Mar 13 – Mar 19, 2003 issue

Music

Classical, Jazz, & Avant

ICP Orchestra

by Christopher DeLaurenti

The main misconception about freely improvised music is that sonically, it's all cacophonous points and spikes. For most free improvisers, the path begins with delving into a chosen instrument, seeking the orchestra that lurks therein, and extracting what seems startling, new, and unusual. The results can be dissonant music, disdained by some as "serial improv" whose points and spikes are abrasive and unpleasant. Yet with experience and the blessings of being in the moment, the right musician can transform pointy, spiky textures into a different yet lyrical music.

Some seasoned free improvisers take a broader approach, plundering music from all times and places. Indeed, the "free" in free improvisation should refer not only to the freedom to play your instrument in any desired possible (or impossible!) fashion, but also the liberty to draw on a variety of music and musical styles at any given instant.

Featuring 10 of the top improvisers from Amsterdam's celebrated jazz scene, the ICP Orchestra melds drama, wit, and virtuosity into freely improvised music that ranges from those aforementioned lyrical points and spikes to Dixieland jazz to waltzes and tangos. With lesser musicians, such eclecticism could easily devolve into parody and pastiche, but the ICP juxtaposes diverse and divergent music with respect and love. Given its name--ICP stands for Instant Composer's Pool--this is no surprise. The ICP's members are composers too, creating pieces for the group to improvise in and around. A highlight of the group is master percussionist Han Bennink, whose playfulness and willingness to apply his drumsticks to any surface adds to the ICP's infectious brand of rambunctious fun. CHRISTOPHER DeLAURENTI

ICP Orchestra performs Wed March 19 (Seattle Asian Art Museum, 1400 E Prospect St, Volunteer Park, 547-6763) at 8 pm, $14.

chris@delaurenti.net

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