Canadian clarinetist François Houle presents the world premiere of "The Secret Lives of Color," a suite inspired by Kassia St. Clair's writing on color. Houle and his international touring band—Gordon Grdina (oud/guitars), Myra Melford (piano), Joëlle Léandre (bass), and Gerry Hemingway (drums)—explore the color spectrum, drawing historical connections to music and weaving rich sonic tapestries. Houle's compositions connect to the moods and spirits of colors, akin to Ellington's "Mood Indigo," bridging the real world and imagination. The work, adaptable for various ensemble sizes, tours Eastern Canada in June 2025. Brass Knuckle Sandwich: a percussive, windswept conversation in sound between Canadian improvisers Marilyn Lerner (piano) and Nicole Rampersaud (trumpet). From Melbourne, the quartet Open Thread (Peggy Lee, Julien Wilson, Theo Carbo, Dylan van der Schyff) weaves improvised soundscapes with eclectic influences, blending melodies and rhythms.

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