Blog posting written by Sam Stahnke Cinema Production, '17, FLEFF Intern, Brooksville, Maine

One red ladder, one red tree and a single red birdcage punctuate the stage. 

A biological, yet abstract string of cell imagery projects in the background.

Nicholas Walker stands stage right with his double bass in hand.  Pianist Jairo Geronymo, and dancer Amy O'brien take the stage with him at FLEFF's Carmen's Habitats Concert.

Walker sees "the multi-dimensional and poly-disciplinary FLEFF collaborations"* as an argument for his repeated involvement.

Walker plays classical and jazz in addition to modern baroque solo recitals and chamber ensembles.  He worked with well-known jazz musicians Illinois Jaquet, Hank Jones and Clark Terry.  His work also flows over into different areas such as the multimedia ensemble Ardesco.

At the Carmen's Habitats Concert Walker plays on Carmen Fantasy Nocturne (Georges Bizet, France, 1874), and Carmen Fantasy Aragonaise (Georges Bizet, France, 1874).

Even when Walker's bass doesn't make a sound he remains part of the concert.

As soprano Dawn Pierce sings she circles Walker.  She cuts in and takes hold of his bass.  He releases it and Pierce revolves the base with her hands like a weighty top.  Walker's character shivers with nerves until Peirce returns the instrument.

Walker acts as both a musical accompaniment and a character for Pierce to engage with.

"These projects... expand our concept of collaborative interplay,"* answers Walker.

What dynamics did you note in Carmen's Habitats?

* Via email