TOM BAKER ON THE SEATTLE MUSIC SCENE

by Maggie Stapleton

Seattle composer Tom Baker (not to be confused with any other reputable Tom Bakers out there) is a crucial contributor to the new music scene in Seattle.  He is the artistic director of the Seattle Composers’ Salon, the co-founder of the Seattle EXperimental Opera (SEXO), an instructor of Composition and Electronic Music at Cornish College of the Arts, and a performer alongside with many bands and ensembles, including the Tom Baker Quartet, Triptet, and Jesse Canterbury’s Vertigo.

Tom Baker

He is also the founder of Present Sounds, a record label which celebrates new music by primarily Seattle-based composers and performers.  You’ll certainly hear some of these tracks on our stream!

Tom stopped by the KING FM/Second Inversion studios recently to talk about some of his favorite tracks from a couple of these discs.

Stay tuned for more music and insights on our SoundCloud page from Tom!  You can catch him live on May 2 at the Seattle Composers’ Salon, along with Seattle Composers William O. Smith, John Teske, and Keith Eisenbrey at 8pm at the Good Shepherd Center Chapel!

SAMPLES FROM HOTEL ELEFANT

by Maggie Stapleton

Hotel Elefant

Contemporary music ensemble Hotel Elefant.

Leaha Maria Villarreal, co-founder of Hotel Elefant, a contemporary music ensemble dedicated to the works of innovative, living composers, was gracious enough to stop by our studios during a visit to Seattle and share some insights and inspirations behind a few pieces that Hotel Elefant has performed and recorded recently.

“Committed to modern sounds and sonic explorations, this vibrant ensemble brings a keen awareness of today’s music to the general public and highlights those living composers who are blurring lines, pushing boundaries, and fostering creativity.”  This statement aligns SO well with the mission of Second Inversion.  We’re thrilled to share this creative, passionate music with you.  Thanks Leaha and all at Hotel Elefant!