PS21 Presents: SUSIE IBARRA

Four Meditations on Impermanence (2023)*

For solo percussion by Susie Ibarra with guest soloists and ensembles

“Thanks to impermanence, everything is possible” – Thich Nhat Hanh

Composer/percussionist Susie Ibarra is joined by Tashi Dorji, Phyllis Chen, and area percussion groups in the premiere of the multi-ensemble version of Four Meditations on Impermanence, a meditation on forests conceived and developed in PS21’s landscape. Inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh’s quote, Ibarra presents four pieces focused on the sonic world of four elements – metal, skin, wood, and water. Drawn by the cultural diversity of languages in nature, she creates a percussive piece grounded in these natural elements—one that is impermanent, yet also able to adapt and grow.

The concert highlights a full day of community-wide, multidisciplinary engagement with PS21’s varied natural topography. Part of Ibarra’s Rhythm in Nature residency, the day includes a participatory performance along the Stony Kill, a musical procession through the forest, sound mapping, and visual and movement projects, all free and open to all.