SUN RA is an audiovisual exhibition exploring the Sun Ra/El Saturn Collection archived by Experimental Sound Studio. The SUN RA/EL SATURN COLLECTION consists of approximately 600 tapes dating from the 1950s-1993 that represent the work of iconoclastic composer and bandleader Sun Ra. The recordings provide a unique documentation of Sun Ra's creative process, including his work with the Arkestra and its offshoots, vocal groups in Chicago, legendary trumpeter/composer Hobart Dotson, and African percussionists in New York. The collection consists of rehearsal tapes, recordings of live concerts, home recordings of sketches and experiments, and master tapes of material likely intended for commercial release. A number of tapes include lectures and recitations by Ra of original unpublished texts, which offer rare insight into his unique philosophy and a broader context for his musical ideas.

The exhibition will blend contemporary works with samples of tapes, cassettes, reels, and other physical media forms.

Programming will be available throughout the exhibition - RSVP to be kept in the loop!

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