2023 Season

In 2023, Hearing in Color proudly presented the "Golden Hour" series—an array of free live music events at Chicago's Epiphany Center. This series offered audiences vibrant melodies and harmonies in a relaxed setting, featuring one-night-only performances by some of our esteemed collaborators.

Davóne Tines: Recital No. 1: MASS

Hearing in Color proudly partnered with acclaimed bass-baritone Davóne Tines to present Recital No. 1: MASS. This compelling program recontextualized religious ritual through a blend of classical and contemporary works, featuring compositions by Caroline Shaw and Tyshawn Sorey. Pianist John Bitoy, a longstanding Hearing in Color artist, accompanied Tines, adding depth to the performance.

A Golden Hour Celebration
with LaRob K. Rafael & Friends

Artistic Director LaRob K. Rafael led a relaxed recital featuring songs about love and the holidays. Joined by pianist and composer Michael R. Oldham and a band of musicians, the performance included carols, original pieces, and R&B covers, creating a jukebox concert that celebrated the season of love.

John Bitoy & D-Composed

This evening highlighted the talents of Afro-Dominican pianist John Bitoy and the acclaimed all-Black music collective, D-Composed. The program featured a blend of classical and contemporary compositions, celebrating Black artistry's rich musical contributions. A highlight was the world premiere of "Courage Under the Gaze" by composer Steve Wallace.

Kababayan Collective

We celebrated Filipino music with baritone Dr. Joseph Legaspi and the Kababayan Collective, a group of Filipino artists dedicated to promoting music, community, and cultural connection. The evening showcased traditional kundiman art songs, contemporary OPM, and concluded with a performance by the Chicago Filipino Folk Fusion Band, SamaSama Project.

Photos: Forestt Strong, Eareen Yambao