Big Ears!

I’m not usually one to just post press releases, but this is pretty special.  It’s really heartening to see Big Ears blow up like this.  Knoxville, here I (we) come:

“The groundbreaking Big Ears Festival – slated for the weekend of March 26-28, 2010 in Knoxville, Tennessee – is excited to unveil the initial line up for this year’s event.  Building on the visionary programming of last year’s inaugural festival, the 2010 Big Ears  expands with a remarkable line up of even greater depth and breadth than its predecessor…with over 30 artists/bands expected to perform some 50 concerts in at least 8 venues this year.  In addition, there will be art exhibitions, installations, film screenings, workshops, interactive experiences, lectures and discussions.

The initial Big Ears line up for March includes Vampire Weekend, Joanna Newsom, St. Vincent, Andrew WK, The Ex, Gang Gang Dance, Clogs, 802 Tour (Nico Muhly / Doveman / Sam Amidon with Nadia Sirota), The xx , Javelin, DJ/Rupture (solo), DJ/Rupture and Andy Moor, My Brightest Diamond,  the Calder Quartet, Gyan Riley, and jj.

As previously announced, visionary American minimalist composer Terry Riley has been confirmed as artist in residence.  Celebrating his 75th birthday in 2010, several of Riley’s compositions will be performed throughout the weekend, including an all-star ensemble for his seminal In C and performances by the composer himself.

Bryce Dessner, best known as guitarist for the acclaimed rock band the National, has signed on this year as a curator for the festival. He’s involved in selecting artists to perform during the weekend, commissioning new work, and conceiving of several unique programs.

The Inner Ear Weekend Festival Pass goes on sale Friday, December 11, at 10:00am Eastern.  This limited edition pass offers premium access to all Big Ears happenings throughout the entire weekend (subject to available capacity) as well as exclusive invitations and access to select special events as well.  They may be purchased through  http://www.bigearsfestival.com/ or by calling 865.684.1200 ext. 2 between the hours of 10:00am and 5:00pm eastern.

Tickets for individual concerts and events will go on sale in early January.  At that time, the schedule of events for the Big Ears weekend will be announced as well.

More artists will be announced in the coming weeks, along with other information about programs, exhibitions, installations, workshops and more.

Filed under: Big Ears  festival  press release