Rock Talk explores a lineage of contemporary piano-percussion music in its most elemental form. The program traces the evolution of rhythmic and timbral innovation from Steve Reich through John Psathas to a new generation of Canadian composers (Monica Pearce, Harry Stafylakis, and Carmen Braden). The new Canadian works, composed especially for SHHH!!, emphasize colour, gesture, and virtuosic rhythmic propulsion.

ON THE PROGRAM

Steve Reich: Piano & Marimba Phase (1967)

Monica Pearce: leather (2018)

Carmen Braden: Rock Talk (2026) - world premiere

John Psathas: Matre’s Dance (1991)

Harry Stafylakis: Light Symbolic (2023)

Zac Pulak, percussion; Edana Higham, piano