Listening Lab

Step into a world of deep listening and collective discovery with A Far Cry, set amidst the inspiring galleries of MassArt Art Museum. During this Listening Lab, we’ll immerse ourselves in Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, uncovering its emotional landscapes and timeless connections to nature and community.

Held in conversation with MAAM’s exhibition, Future Fossils, this interactive event bridges music and art, inviting participants to reflect on the resonance of past and present. Future Fossils presents imagined relics of today’s culture, offering a lens through which to examine our shared human story and what we leave behind for future generations.

What to Expect

Participatory Listening: Dive into the music with guided exercises that spark curiosity and conversation. Community Connection: Share your insights and responses with musicians and fellow participants. Immersive Experience: Explore how sound and art intertwine in the unique setting of MAAM.

Whether you’re a seasoned concertgoer or new to classical music, this free event invites you to reimagine how we listen—to music, to art, and to each other.

About A Far Cry

A Far Cry’s mission is to ignite a love for music and utilize its power to bring people together locally and across the globe. The ensemble delivers riveting performances with daring energy and commitment through their unique model of collective leadership, bringing music to life in innovative ways. Sharing this experience of unconventional music-making is their way of inspiring the world to listen.

Called a “world-wide phenomenon” by Boston’s WBUR, A Far Cry has nurtured a distinct approach to music-making since its founding in 2007. The self-conducted orchestra is a democracy in which decisions are made collectively and leadership rotates among the players (“Criers”). This structure has led to consistently thoughtful, innovative programming — and impactful collaborations with celebrated performers and composers. A Far Cry has risen to the top of Billboard’s Traditional Classical Chart, been named Boston’s best classical ensemble by the “Improper Bostonian,” and celebrated two Grammy nominations for its Visions and Variations. Boston Musical Intelligencer sums up the group: “This conductor-free ensemble has earned and sustained a reputation for top-drawer playing, engrossing programming, and outstanding guest artists.”

Ticketing Notice

This event is free with advance registration. MAAM may accommodate unregistered walk-up guests on the evening of this event only as capacity allows; walk-up tickets on the evening of the event are not guaranteed. Evening events often sell out; plan ahead and register in advance.  

Documentation Notice  

Photos and/or videos will be taken at this event. By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that your likeness may be included in photos and videos of the event and that those photos and videos may be used by MassArt in connection with MassArt and MassArt Art Museum communications. If you do not agree with this usage, please notify a staff member upon arrival to receive a no-photo sticker. 

Access

MassArt Art Museum is committed to creating a welcoming, accessible, and inclusive environment during in-person and virtual programs and events. To request an access or disability-related accommodation, please contact MassArt Art Museum at maam@massart.edu at least two weeks before the date of the event. 

Free