Aleksandra Vrebalov

Aleksandra Vrebalov’s music ranges from concert music and opera to music for modern dance and film, and it has been performed by Kronos Quartet, Serbian National Theater, English National Ballet, Belgrade Philharmonic, and many others. One of Vrebalov’s string quartets,  . . . hold me, neighbor, in this storm . . . , was commissioned by Carnegie Hall and premiered by Kronos Quartet. As a Serbian expat, Vrebalov is the recipient of the Golden Emblem from the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for lifelong dedication and contribution to her native country’s culture. She is also the 2024 winner of the Grawemeyer Award in Music Composition.

Inspired by Icon of the Mother of God and Infant Christ (Virgin Eleousa) on view in the Robert P. Bergman Memorial Gallery (gallery 105), Vrebalov performs Antennae, a site-specific concert in the galleries and Ames Family Atrium. Commissioned by the CMA in partnership with the Cleveland Foundation, this evening-length work for large choir, organs, trumpets, and percussion features members of esteemed vocal ensemble Cappella Romana singing Byzantine chant, surrounded by 20 singers and other musicians from the community.