The Ashcan Orchestra presents a collection of new electro-mechanical toy instruments, and new works. The instruments will be built from handbells, toy pianos, slide whistles, and percussion and be automated by light, sound, and other sensors using simple CMOS digital logic chips, and mechanical memory. The first part of the evening will consist of new pieces for the individual instruments and ensemble. In the second half, the instruments will comprise a chamber ensemble sized “music box” with performers using sound and light to play a longer theatrical composition which uses the rules of digital logic, inherent to their electronics, as musical material.

The Ashcan Orchestra is simultaneously the audio/visual work of composerP. Spadine, a collection of toy, re-appropriated, and homemade instruments, and an revolving performance ensemble based in NYC since 2007. On stages and basements, indoors and out, it has been presenting new music and rituals in celebration and emulation of the physics and mathematics that bind the known universe.  

[COMMISSION] Ashcan Orchestra: New Instruments and New Works is made possible, in part, by the Jerome Foundation.

The Jerome Foundation, a long-time supporter of young composers, was a mainstay in Roulette’s early development and continues to help us fulfill our mission by presenting ambitious work by promising artists. Each year, the Jerome Foundation supports five artist residencies and four commissions at Roulette.