What We're About
“Founded by saxophonist Brian Sacawa and composer Erik Spangler, Mobtown has revealed a knack for putting works and musicians together in effective combinations.” - Tim Smith, The Baltimore Sun
Described as “an edgy music series” (The Washington Post) and “an imaginative organization” (The Baltimore Sun), Mobtown Modern is committed to presenting innovative music by a diverse range of modern composers. Curated by saxophonist Brian Sacawa and composer Erik Spangler, the series showcases music by both established composers who have defined the contemporary musical landscape as well as some of the most exciting young composers who are shaping the future. In partnership with the Contemporary Museum, Mobtown Modern aims to create a new type of listening experience for composed music: integrating classical instruments and DJ-style electronics, incorporating a strong visual element into each event, and creating a lounge environment that’s radically different from the traditional classical music concert environment.
The Curators
Praised as “an inventive musician” (The New York Times), “inspired” (The Washington Post), and a “sharp new-music saxophonist” (Time Out New York), Brian Sacawa has firmly established himself as an important contemporary voice for his instrument. Active internationally as a soloist, recitalist, and chamber musician, his versatile career has led to appearances ranging from the concert stage to club settings as well as the premieres of over 50 new works for saxophone. Mr. Sacawa’s critically acclaimed, Grammy-winning recordings can be heard on the Naxos, Innova, Equilibrium, and BiBimBop record labels.
A renegade Doctor of Music from Harvard University, Erik Spangler (a.k.a DJ Dubble8) is a composer and turntablist whose hybrid soundscapes thrive on a unique blend of experimental and popular influences. Samples from old vinyl records, programmed drum patterns, newly composed acoustic layers, and synthetic sound elements are all subject to live time-bending through digital turntable manipulation. Spangler’s acoustic compositions have been performed across the United States and Canada by such noted ensembles as the Boston Modern Orchestra Project, International Contemporary Ensemble, and the Callithumpian Consort.