One decision can change the course of your life. And for Knoxville-native and Double Bassist, Will Yager, that decision was to attend a concert presented by the Nief-Norf Summer festival. That concert inspired him to attend the festival the next Summer as a fellow, which led to a passion for performing and creating new music. Will is finishing up his DMA at the University of Iowa and his dissertation is to record an album of newly composed music...that was specifically written for him. Additionally, Will and two of his colleagues have founded a non-profit organization called "Bass Players for Black Composers", which is actively raising money (https://www.gofundme.com/f/solo-double-bass-pieces-by-black-composers-fund) to commission new music for double bass by black composers. More information about this organization can be found on Facebook and Instagram.
Will performs on Nief-Norf's Virtual Marathan Concert this Sunday, July 12th, which is in celebration of their 10th anniversary. The Knoxville-based contemporary music ensemble is unable to hold its annual Summer festival this year because of COVID-19. But music-lovers can get their "concert fix" by attending this virtual concert from 3pm to 9pm, which will feature 30+ performances and 10+ interviews with past festival alumni, guest artists, and collaborators. For tickets, information, and how to make a donation to this non-profit arts organization: http://www.niefnorf.org/
