TERRA INFIRMA: The Album

The Terra Infirma Project – comprising the world premieres of three new works by Reena Esmail, a commercial recording release, a live multi-media concert video, the creation of a two-part documentary, and a year-long series of educational and residency activities at Interlochen Center for the Arts – represents a major highlight of my career and one of the most treasured artistic processes I will ever experience.

I began my life in music at Interlochen Arts Academy as a high school student over 40 years ago, and while this project has brought me full-circle, it has also offered everything I love most about my career as an artist: the creation of new music; deep collaboration with respected colleagues; the exploration of new artistic territory; meaningful engagement with young musicians; art that inspires environmental conversation; and the opportunity to enjoy the process of creation as much as the final product.

Bringing Terra Infirma to life with my dear friend, Reena Esmail, was a gift in itself, but to do it at Interlochen – where many of my earliest and most important musical values were formed – was extraordinary. My time on campus this past year suggested to me that maybe, just maybe, we actually can go home again when “home” represents the genesis of our best selves. My time spent with the incredible Interlochen students assured me that the future of music is safe in the hands of these smart, curious, motivated young players. Even in our increasingly complex world, their ability to commit and collaborate with their whole hearts gives me hope. As a professor myself, I find it enormously inspiring to be reminded that the training ground of great artists shouldn’t be considered an assembly line, but a magnificent garden - rich with seeds, buds, and blooms for which opportunity and mentorship are the sun and water.

As a project that takes its inspiration from the wonders of Earth and the challenges that face its sustainability, I cannot imagine bringing this music to life with anyone but young artists – still striving and discovering the newness of their voices, playing and singing from a place of pure joy, and viewing the world through an open lens to every possibility. My heartfelt thanks to all my collaborators for their faith in the Terra Infirma project and for their endless dedication to the new terrain of this giant undertaking. 

To my beloved Interlochen, I offer my immense thanks and admiration for continuing to nurture excellence in their extraordinary artistic garden - and for inviting me into that magical space once again.

-Yolanda Kondonassis