Trumpet and strings may hail from different musical families, but the synergy between Invoke and Brandon Ridenour is undeniable. This one-of-a-kind collaboration is a celebration of genre-defying artistry, blending refined classical elegance with folk, jazz, and modern sounds. Audiences can expect a dynamic performance featuring original works, reimagined classics, and a world premiere by Ridenour, inspired by Invoke’s innovative sound.

In addition to Ridenour’s world premiere, the show will also include Evolve by Invoke’s Karl Mitze, Tel by Invoke’s Nick Montopoli and array of covers and new arrangements including Vivaldi’s Sento e Seno, the Beatles’ Blackbird, and Wild Man Blues by Jelly Roll Morton and Louis Armstrong.

Violinist Zach Matteson of Invoke describes the program as a meeting of "favorite things," where each piece showcases the blend of individual and collective artistry. Trumpeter Brandon Ridenour brings his innovative approach, adding jazz-inspired flair to Invoke’s rootsy string sound.

“Brandon is one of the best trumpet players in the world,” says Matteson. “He pushes us into exciting new territory.”

The collaboration between Invoke and Ridenour began nearly ten years ago when their paths crossed through the Concert Artist Guild. A shared passion for blending classical and modern genres fueled their creative synergy, culminating in this much-anticipated performance.

Invoke is a multi-instrumental quartet that masterfully blends classical, folk, bluegrass, and Americana into a unique musical experience. Comprising Nick Montopoli (violin, banjo, vocals), Zach Matteson (violin, vocals), Karl Mitze (viola, mandolin, vocals), and Geoff Manyin (cello, vocals), the ensemble is celebrated for its genre-defying artistry and innovative compositions. Strings Magazine notes that Invoke "simply cannot be contained by any one label."

The quartet has earned numerous accolades, including winning the Concert Artists Guild Victor Elmaleh Competition in 2018 and serving as the Young Professional String Quartet in Residence at the University of Texas at Austin from 2016 to 2018. Invoke's discography features albums such as Souls in the Mud (2015), Furious Creek (2018), and Evolve & Travel (2023), each showcasing their commitment to creating original works that resonate with diverse audiences.

Brandon Ridenour, a groundbreaking trumpet soloist, collaborative artist, composer, arranger,and conductor, gained acclaim for his innovative approach at an early age. He began learningabout the wonders of music at age 5, studying piano under the tutelage of his father. Thismorphed into “tootelage” when he picked up the trumpet in 5th grade band class in GrandRapids, Michigan. Upon graduating from the Juilliard School, he immediately began touringwith the Canadian Brass and embarked on a solo career. He's won competitions ranging fromConcert Artists Guild to the American Composers Forum and is the co-founder of two crossgenre ensembles, Brassology and Founders. In 2023, Brandon joined the American BrassQuintet and became faculty at his alma mater - Juilliard. He is also on faculty at The NewSchool and the Manhattan School of Music, where he is passionate about developing a newmodel of education for a well-rounded, progressive musician of the future.

Explore the dynamic tapestry of Austin's contemporary classical music scene with KMFA's Offbeat Series. This captivating program presents talented artists at the forefront of innovation, bringing their performances to life in the renowned Draylen Mason Music Studio. With a mission to introduce a new genre to dedicated classical music enthusiasts and foster a growing community of new music lovers, KMFA invites you to join us on a journey that celebrates the vibrancy of Austin's musical landscape.