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In truly avant-garde performances that are boldly energetic and wildly uninhibited, the perceval duo blends the excitement and immediacy of instrumental music with the clarity and expression of the voice in a unique musical/theatrical experience. Avant-garde composer/musican/singer performance artists, this is a violin and percussion duo that specializes in contemporary music, utilizing the voice in conjunction with (and sometimes away from) their instruments and a broad array of percussion instruments, including objects that were never designed to be percussion instruments! Come see and hear what happens when you allow a violinist who “sings” to perform with a percussionist who “sings”? Words are divided and contorted, and ideas are interrupted in a manner that often leaves the listener breathless. Underlying themes abound, and the virtuosity of these performers will dazzle everyone. Among the works performed is A Contest for the Future (based upon George W. Bush’s acceptance speech at the 2004 Republican Convention) and Songs for the Sane (a commentary about life inside an insane asylum). Dennis Sullivan has numerous awards for excellence and began his professional career with the Cleveland Orchestra "percussion festival" at the age of 16. Russell Podgorsek is active as both a performer and composer. May of last year saw the New York premiere of his 5 Pieces for 8 Players, commissioned by the Fireworks ensemble.

“Mays is destined to play great houses in lead roles, swept along by his magnificent instrument.” “Wherever Mays graces an audience, they will know a joyous flood of human spirit.” – Kingston Freeman.  Charles Mays, Jr. returns to Woodstock after his inspired performance at last year’s woodstock fringe, in a concert of songs by Franz Schubert, Hugo Wolf, William Bolcom and the world premiere of a new song cycle by American SongFest Artistic Director, Larry Alan Smith. Winner of the Metropolitan Opera’s 2004 New England Regional auditions, this is a rare chance to hear an exceptional young artist, well on his way to a major career, sing in the intimate and acoustically perfect Byrdcliffe Theatre.  Those who were lucky enough to hear last year’s concert are already clamoring for tickets to his return engagement.  One performance only, Friday, August 26, 8pm.