The piece — a four-minute brass-and-percussion work called “Changes/Transitions,” by composer Quinn Mason — made its premiere Friday in a video posted on Facebook and YouTube. The work is performed by 13 members of Musicians of the Utah Symphony, with the symphony’s conductor and musical director, Thierry Fischer, leading the group.
“This project feels more appropriate and timely than anything else to share with the community, given the dire need to change the social justices that continue to happen,” said trombonist Mark Peterson, who organized the production and was the video’s artistic director.
“Changes/Transitions,” Peterson said, “can help the listener ask their own questions to themselves as to how best to do their part so we as a culture can implement change and transition for racial injustices.”
The video, which is mostly in black-and-white with strategic splashes of color, shows the musicians performing separately, at home or in studios. COVID-19 made performing in the same room impossible, Peterson said, particularly for brass musicians, who can’t wear masks while they play.
All the performances were shot on a smartphone. Each musician listened to a “click track,” devised by Mason and Peterson, so they could keep time and hit their cues. In some cases, Peterson went to musicians’ homes — wearing personal protective equipment — to help with the recording.
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Mason, 24, is based in Dallas, and his works have been performed by orchestras across the country. Peterson said a mentor recommended Mason, who “responded right away with his shared interest, honor, and appreciation for the opportunity.”
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