News & Events

Brooklyn-based PROJECT Trio Kicks off Spring Semester Cultural Events Season

January 19, 2012

PROJECT Trio, which combines classical training with an eclectic taste in musical styles, will perform at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, in UNC Asheville’s Lipinsky Auditorium. This concert begins the spring semester series of musical performances sponsored by the university’s Cultural Events and Special Academic Programs. The series will continue on March 31 with a performance by Mavis Staples.

Now in its fifth year, PROJECT Trio offers virtuosic, high-energy chamber music that goes well beyond the confines of traditional classical music. With a repertoire that dips into hip-hop, jazz, rock, and experimental sounds, Project Trio earned high praise from Jazz Review for its most recent recording, which the magazine called “a glorious celebration of the music of our time.”

The trio’s YouTube videos have garnered more than 65 million views. PROJECT trio has toured Europe and performed with major orchestras across the U.S., and has its own record label, Harmonyville Records.

PROJECT Trio flutist, Greg Pattillo, is known for his YouTube performance videos showcasing “beatbox flute.” The New York Times described him as the “best in the world at what he does.” Pattillo was once principal flute for China’s Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra. Cellist Eric Stephenson and bassist Peter Seymour have both performed with numerous orchestras in this country. Pattillo, Stephenson and Seymour met while attending the Cleveland Institute of Music.

PROJECT Trio’s name came from its original plan of one-week projects in different cities that would combine education, community outreach and performances featuring both classical works and their own compositions. The trio is now based in Brooklyn, N.Y.

The concert is a production of UNC Asheville’s Office of Cultural Events & Special Academic Programs. Tickets are $20 for the public, $7 for students, and $5 for UNC Asheville students. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Highsmith University Union box office, or online at www.uncatickets.com.