Roots and Routes: 250 Years of American Music with Lara Downes and Theo Bleckman

Week of October 3, 2026

Roots and Routes: 250 Years of American Music
Join acclaimed artists Lara Downes and Theo Bleckmann for a compelling exploration of America’s musical heritage, celebrating 250 years of stories, voices, and cultural influences that have shaped our nation.

Lara Downes: America at 250
In this solo piano performance, Lara Downes illuminates the untold stories and overlooked voices woven throughout 250 years of American history. Through music and narrative, she explores themes of identity, belonging, and the many immigrant journeys that have contributed to the American experience.

Theo Bleckmann: Songs for Voice, Loops, and Toys
Two-time Grammy®-nominated vocalist and composer Theo Bleckmann presents a captivating solo performance of a cappella, electronically processed, and improvised vocal music. Using technology ranging from simple smartphone apps to sophisticated electronic tools, Bleckmann transforms his voice into an extraordinary instrument, creating soundscapes that move from playful and unexpected to hauntingly beautiful. Audiences may even be invited to join in the experience.

Theo Bleckmann: Sighing, Singing, Sounding – An interactive voice exploration workshop
Nothing creates community quite like singing together. Whether we sigh, laugh, whisper, hum, or sing in harmony, our voices connect us in powerful ways. In this playful and welcoming workshop, participants will explore the full range of vocal expression through improvisation, sound-making, and group singing. Together, we will discover new possibilities in our voices, connect with one another, and uncover the music that exists within us all.

 

Lara Downes is an acclaimed American pianist, producer, curator, and cultural advocate known for bringing overlooked stories and voices to life through music. Named 2022 Classical Woman of the Year by Performance Today, she has been praised for her imaginative programming and commitment to expanding the classical music landscape. A Billboard chart-topping recording artist, Downes has appeared with leading orchestras and at major venues and festivals across the United States. Her performances explore themes of history, identity, belonging, and the diverse cultural influences that shape the American experience.

Theo Bleckmann is a two-time Grammy®-nominated vocalist and composer known for his adventurous blend of jazz, contemporary music, improvisation, and vocal experimentation. Described by The New York Times as sounding “from another planet,” he has collaborated with artists ranging from Meredith Monk and Laurie Anderson to leading jazz ensembles and orchestras worldwide. Bleckmann’s performances combine expressive singing, electronics, and inventive soundscapes that expand the possibilities of the human voice.