Genre-bending concert to electrify Bayou Theater

September 6, 2021 | UHCL Staff

Abraham Lincoln did not know that when he used the phrase "with malice toward none" in his second inaugural address, that over 150 years later it would be used as much more than a metaphor.

Apollo Chamber Players will perform "With Malice Toward None," composed by noted composer and musician James "Kimo" Williams, at the Bayou Theater at University of Houston-Clear Lake, Wednesday, Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m. Electric violinist Tracy Silverman is the event's featured soloist.

Silverman is a graduate of the Juilliard School, was a violinist for the Turtle Island String Quartet, and performed at the gala opening of Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles.

Apollo Chamber Players Executive and Artistic Director Matt Detrick said the composition was inspired by the life of Ludwig van Beethoven, who was perhaps the most famous composer who ever lived, and connected to Lincoln's speech, which resonated with current issues surrounding racial and social justice.

"It's that Enlightenment philosophy of working with our better angels, and creating a positive change through the arts," Detrick said. "The concert's theme also connects very well with the 20th anniversary of Sept. 11, which we will also be honoring as part of the evening. There will be a really entertaining and fun pieces, with classic, blues, jazz and rock. It's a delight to listen to, particularly with the electric violin."

Detrick said Silverman was among the most well-known electric violinists in the world, playing a six-string violin custom made for him. "He's a singular figure that crosses many genres," he said. "'With Malice Toward None' is arranged from a Beethoven symphony with a bit of Jimi Hendrix. Now that's a combination," he said. "It's got a strong 60s or 70s vibe, but it's been brought to the present day."

For more information about upcoming Bayou Theater events, or to reserve tickets, go online.