VORPMI!JANANA Kalamazoo College New Music Improvisation Ensemble
VORPMI!JANANA is Kalmazoo College’s newest ensemble and is devoted to improvised new music. It is not a jazz ensemble (although the ensemble may play jazz) because it is devoted to all styles and of music and because we believe that ideas are more important than styles or genres. Where traditional ensembles rehearse for their next concert this ensemble plays various improvisational exercises that not only improve improvisational skills but also improve general musicianship and aural comprehension. Participants claim that playing in the ensemble has improved their musical communication and listening skills and helped stretch their minds into new musical experiences.
The name VORPMI!JANANA consists of the retrograde of the word improv, indicating that improvisation is two-way communication, and the Sanskrit word Janana. Janana means knowledge, wisdom, compassion, birth and becoming.
Since its beginning in September 2007 VORPMI!JANANA has performed four times and is looking forward to performances in the community and in collaboration with other performing groups. A salient feature of the ensemble’s performances is audience participation, this reflects the ensemble’s belief that musical communication is not only between players but may include active audience listening and participation.
VORPMI!JANANA is open to all Kalamazoo College students, without fee, and with or without credit. The ensemble meets twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in room 224 Fine Arts Building.
VORPMI!JANANA currently has four members:
Alexandra M. Hathaway
Sarah Allweis-Rosenbaum
Kate Shrosbree
John Webber (Convenor)
Logo designed by Sarah Allweis-Rosenbaum
Photos by Caroline Webber
Spring 2008
NEXT CONCERT: Thursday, June 5, 7 p.m.
Recital Hall, Fine Arts, Kalamazoo College
