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. 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. This event includes visuals, meaningful context within the performance, as well as an opportunity to connect with the artists after the show.