The Yorkton Arts Council is delighted to bring you "Infinitus", Sunday, March 16 at 2:00 in the Anne Portnuff Theatre, Yorkton Regional High School. This is the next concert in the 2013-2014 "Stars for Saskatchewan" concert series, and features "Infinitus", a critically acclaimed beatboxing string trio known for their unique sound and upbeat performance style.
Formed in 2008 by violist Anthony Cheung, cellist Alex Cheung, and violinist John "Adidam" Littlejohn, Infinitus presents classical standards and original jazz/hip-hop arrangements and compositions, and is quickly becoming one of North America's premiere chamber groups. When asked about their fresh approach to classical music, John Littlejohn remarked "Our music making is usually the response to questions that we ask ourselves. Questions like: What would I like to hear and how can we do that? What do I need to say? Those questions, combined with our limitations (3 guys, 3 instruments) usually lead to some creative and exciting music making."
Indeed, the Orillia Packet and Times said that "They may have a violin in their hand, but they can play anything. They can play rock, they can play jazz, they can play classical music. They are so versatile, it's unbelievable. They put on a spectacular show. You wouldn't believe three young guys can carry an audience away, but they will."
Infinitus loves to send their music message to students. John commented that "Our main goal with young people is to inspire them to think outside of the box, while also showing them how to relate to our instruments. Instruments that many unfortunately associate with music styles they can't personally connect with. After our shows, we often hear comments like, "I didn't think I like strings, but after today I'm a big fan!"
Outreach is an important part of the Infinitus music mission. To date, they have performed over 700 outreach performances in schools, nursing homes, juvenile detention centres, and hospitals. "We've had the privilege of being motivated by some of the great musicians of our time, which leaves us with a heart to pay it forward by inspiring a new generation of musicians. Also, in today's social media driven society, it's more important than ever to encourage youth to take the time to listen deeply to the music around them, and to think about what they're hearing. "Listening" is the primary focus of our outreach performances. We also, believe in the healing power of music. For that reason, we often perform at nursing homes and assisted living facilities." John explains.
Their love of music and performing is obvious, and this joy emanates out from the stage to include the audience. "Our favorite part of performing is getting the chance to share something that we love with the audience. We've done a little touring in Saskatchewan and loved it! But this will be the longest, most extensive tour of SK to date. We're really looking forward to it!" says John .
Collectively, John, Anthony and Alex hold degrees from the University of Michigan and the Peabody Conservatory, and have won awards at the local, national, and international level. No wonder the accolades include comments like "Infinite talent from Infinitus." (The Prince Rupert Daily News)
Tickets for this dynamic trio are available at the Yorkton Arts Council, Welcome Home Floral and Gift Shop, at the door, or on-line at www.yorkonarts.ca
