Explore Wright's Musical Origins

On the evening of Thursday, February 28th, Oak Park music historian David Patterson will re-introduce architecture fans to William C. Wright, the long-neglected yet highly influential composer-father of America’s most famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright as part of Unity Temple Restoration Foundation's “Break::the::Box” program series. More after the jump...

The event celebrates the release of Patterson’s recording, “The Music of William C. Wright” and will feature live performances of Wright’s compositions by pianist Kuang-Hao Huang, tenor Matthew Dean, and soprano Laura Lynch. Proceeds from the concert will support UTRF’s mission to restore and preserve Unity Temple. “The Music of William C. Wright” will premiere at Unity Temple on Thursday, February 28, 2013 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $15 for UTRF members and $18 for non-members, and are available at www.utrf.org <http://www.utrf.org>  or by calling 708-383-8873 <tel:708-383-8873> .
 
The concert will present the fruits of Patterson’s successful Kickstarter campaign, in which he raised more than $7,000 through the online “crowd funding” website to support this recording. The finished product, a CD, features 21 pieces and constitutes the first-ever recording of Wright’s father’s compositions, drawn from materials found in archives throughout the country. These solo piano pieces and vocal works not only illuminate the figure of William C. Wright, but also inspire more thoughtful discussion of his role in shaping the young Frank’s attitude toward music, nature, design, and ultimately, toward architecture itself.
 
“We are delighted to present the premiere of “The Music of William C. Wright” at Unity Temple, Frank Lloyd Wright’s modern masterpiece and one of the most important designs in his ‘repertoire,’ said Emily Roth, Executive Director of UTRF. “Unity Temple – often referred to as Frank Lloyd Wright’s ‘jewel box’ – was designed with musical performances and acoustics in mind. Music makes the space come alive.”
 
This event will paint a portrait of Frank Lloyd Wright’s father in words and music, giving us fresh perspective not only of the architect’s upbringing, but also of the father whose musical mind was so essential to Frank’s own creative method.
 
David W. Patterson has served on the musicology faculties of the University of Maryland-College Park, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and the University of Chicago. He is currently preparing a monograph on the subject of Frank Lloyd Wright and music, as well as coordinating a second recorded volume of William C. Wright’s compositions.
 
Break::the::Box, a program series that explores creative nonconformity, finds inspiration in the life and work of Frank Lloyd Wright, and views the architect's eagerness to venture into new territory as a point of departure for examining the creative process and product. UTRF selects thought-leaders who reach beyond the expected topics of Frank Lloyd Wright and Unity Temple to progressive ideas in the arts, culture, and society. Speakers are selected not only for their ability to draw a diverse audience and present compelling ideas for the public's consideration, but for their capacity to challenge their listeners and stir lively discussion and debate. Proceeds of Break::the::Box benefit the restoration of Unity Temple, which has suffered extensive deterioration over the last century. For more info, follow the link.

Image via kickstarter/Hope Rogers