Straight Up and Down

Straight Up and Down (SUAD) presents three new commissioned works, pushing the boundaries of musical innovation and celebrating the originality, creativity, and diversity of Australian improvisers. The featured composers for this iteration are Cheryl Durongpisitkul, Yusuke Akai, and Aaron Choulai.

In an innovative collaboration, each performance will unfold at Melbourne's iconic outdoor container bar, Section 8, situated in the vibrant CBD. Section 8, a cultural nexus known for its diversity in music and community, contributes a context that adds a depth of dimension to this series, creating a unique platform for the premiere of these boundary-pushing compositions.

Performances

SUAD #1 - March 29th, 2024: Naarm/Melbourne, Australia. Premiere of Straight Up and Down #1 - the AAO plays the music of Cheryl Durongpisitkul, Section 8. Music from 6PM.

SUAD #2 - June 28th, 2024: Naarm/Melbourne, Australia. Premiere of Straight Up and Down #2 - the AAO plays the music of Yusuke Akai, Section 8. Music from 6PM.

SUAD #3 - October 4th, 2024: Naarm/Melbourne, Australia. Premiere of Straight Up and Down #3 - The Australian Art Orchestra, Section 8. Music from 6PM.

Composers

Cheryl Durongpisitkul - Composer - Straight Up and Down #1

Yusuke Akai - Composer - Straight Up and Down #2

Aaron Choulai – Composer - Straight Up and Down #3

This program is supported by the City of Melbourne Arts Grants & Crumpler.