Classically Unconventional
SOURCE: FRISCO STYLE MAGAZINE
Performing arts ensemble Lumedia Musicworks is dedicated to lending a unique twist to classical music.
Conceived in 2017 by a visionary group of like-minded musicians, its players bring classical music to life via live performances and original short films by taking an innovative and unconventional approach in presenting what is known as early music written before 1750.
The nonprofit organization marries 21st century technology with 18th century music, introducing silent films, graphics, poetry and dance to early music to turn the concept of a traditional classical music concert into a performance art piece.
Earlier this summer, Lumedia Musicworks performed at the George Purefoy Municipal Center as part of the City of Frisco’s Music in the Chamber concert series.
“Early music is all about theater, high drama, dance, even street music,” Dr. Julianna Emanski, a Frisco resident and Lumedia Musicworks’ artistic director, explained. “It covered sacred music, party music, music for special occasions — you name it. It wasn’t formal concert music.”
The organization “recognized the many tools and opportunities that no one was utilizing in the industry,” she said. “We realized there was unexplored territory for early music to be better understood, to transform audiences’ perception and show them that this music is anything but stuffy and boring. It is full of light, life and laughter, and is totally relevant if given the chance and approached with an open mind.”
Jendi Tarde, Lumedia Musicworks’ stories director, said, “We often think of classical music as this lofty, elitist thing, but early music is a unique offshoot of the classical music world.” She describes the ensemble’s productions as “relatable. It is high art, down-and-dirty fun, performance art and everything in between. There really aren’t a lot of barriers for the group in this genre.”