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Circumpolar Music Series: Craig Coray

On Saturday, August 30, beginning at 7 p.m., The Circumpolar Music Series offers its first concert of the '25-26 season in collaboration with the Music & More Concert Series. The event will feature three important compositions by UAF alum Craig Coray ('70) composed between 1992-1999. It will feature an all-star roster of musicians including Leah Nenaber, violin; Charly Akert, cello, Dorli McWayne, flute; Renee Muir, clarinet; Michael McConnell, saxophone; Troy Irish, percussion; Paul Krejci, piano; and Sean Dowgray, conductor.

ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø the program:
Coray's piano solo, Silam Inua (Sky Spirit), refers to the spirit that governs all things above the Earth; the sky, ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø, and universe. The work consists of eight brief movements illustrating ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø, ceremony, dance, ritual, hunting, and time. Sanctuary (for piano, violin, and clarinet) is a musical homage to wild places consisting of three movements: Bending, Flowing, and Still. We Walk to the Sky, a chamber work inspired by Dena'ina culture, draws its inspiration from Alaskan landscapes and the transformative power of sound. Coray himself will also be featured, speaking about his music as well as his knowledge of Alaska Native music more broadly.

ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø the Composer:
Craig Coray graduated from UAF in 1970, and completed his graduate studies in music theory and composition at SUNY in Buffalo, NY. He is a former member of the music faculty at UAA, where he designed and taught a course on the music of Alaska natives. He now divides his time between his summer home at Qizhjeh Vena and his winter home in the sky islands of southeast Arizona.

The Circumpolar Music Series celebrates the rich musical traditions and creativity of the North by bringing together outstanding musicians from Alaska and beyond. Each season offers unique performances that highlight both local artistry and global connections, fostering community through the power of live music.