By Ted AYALA
Lovers of the rare and exotic, watch out! A “Gnarwhallaby” sighting is set to take place tonight at the Neighborhood Church in Pasadena.
Before you reach for your rifle and supply of tranquilizer darts, just what exactly is a “Gnarwhallaby?” Well, for starters, it isn’t an “it,” but rather a “them.” As in Cal Arts alums and fellow Wild-Up members Brian Walsh (clarinets), Matt Barbier (trombones), Richard Valitutto (keyboards), and Derek Stein (cello).
Founded in 2011, the group has quickly found its niche in Los Angeles’ burgeoning alt-classical scene, performing a diverse repertoire ranging from the late Henryk Gorecki to works specifically commissioned for Gnarhwhallaby.
Beginning at 7:30 p.m., they’ll be performing a program of music by Nicholas Deyoe, Martin Smolka, Nicholas Deyoe, Fernando Barros, Witold Szalonek and pianist-composer Steffen Schleirmacher.
Tickets and more information can be obtained by contacting Gnarwhallaby at gnarwhallaby@gmail.com, or by visiting www.gnarwhallaby.com.
Then on Saturday night, the Santa Cecilia Orchestra brings its 20th season to a close with a fundraiser event at the Center for the Arts in Eagle Rock.
The event begins at 7:30 p.m. with wine and light appetizers, followed by chamber music played by members of the orchestra. There will also be a silent auction held. Proceeds from the event go to help fund the orchestra.
For tickets and more information, call (323) 259-3011, or visit the orchestra’s website at www.scorchestra.org.