Amelia Lukas and pianist Yoko Greeney share an inspired and ethereal program of music that explores composers’ endless fascination with birds. Featuring composers of the Pacific Northwest and Japan, this evocative concert conjures the special qualities that connect these culturally rich epicenters of the Pacific Rim. While highlighting the role of birds within the natural world, and commonalities of aesthetics and design, this 90-minute program reveals and celebrates a rich overlap of influence through the lush sounds of piano, flute, alto flute, and bass flute. This concert honors the more than 65 years since the establishment of Portland as a Sister City to Sapporo, Portland’s longest-standing Sister City relationship. Portland Japanese Garden, proclaimed to be the most authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan, is a fitting venue for this special performance—the friendship between Portland and Sapporo was instrumental in the celebrated urban oasis' establishment in 1963. The highlight of the event will be the premiere of Kirsten Volness’ new work for flute, piano and electronics, Shima Enaga, a piece that draws its inspiration from the iconic “snow fairies” of Hokkaido. Volness creates sublimely intimate and emotive soundscapes that are “nothing short of gorgeous” (New York Arts). Each of her compositions reveals “an exquisite sound world” (New Classic LA) inspired by nature, myth, spirituality, and environmental and sociopolitical issues, with clear influences from Japanese sonic traditions. A follow-up from musician curators Amelia Lukas and Yoko Greeney to last year’s sold-out and highly acclaimed concert The Japanese French Connection at the Portland Japanese Garden, Music of the Birds offers a prismatic focus on the avifauna of these two regions, and the ways in which these creatures enrich and add beauty to our world. Presented by Portland Japanese Garden in partnership with the Bird Alliance of Oregon, formerly Portland Audubon, this event includes meaningful context within the performance as well as an enlightening conversation directly following which will feature staff from both partner organizations. A closing reception will provide the opportunity to connect with the artists and fellow concertgoers, deepening the impact of this meaningful cultural program.