Cheswatyr Commissions 2026

Returning to New York, the anniversary season advances on Monday, November 16 with the Cheswatyr Commissions Premiere at the Lee C. Bollinger Forum at Columbia University. At the center of the program will be the world premiere of a major new commission by Korean American composer, vocalist and sound artist Bora Yoon, whose immersive work brings together digital devices, voice and instruments from across cultures and historical periods. Created for a large chamber ensemble, traditional Korean percussion, electronics and a vocalist-narrator, the multidisciplinary work will be presented alongside music by Yoon’s project mentor, acclaimed composer and sound artist Miya Masaoka.

Cheswatyr Commissions honors the visionary legacy of Cece Wasserman—a passionate arts philanthropist and tireless advocate for living composers—whose leadership catalyzed commissions from luminaries such as Missy Mazzoli, Arlene Sierra, and Julia Wolfe.

Rooted in Cece’s belief in substantive support for artists, the commission program continues to empower composers whose work reflects bold creativity, cultural resonance, and a commitment to shaping the future of music. Composers Now selects each commissionee through a thoughtful, mission-aligned process that centers artistic excellence, inclusivity, and the potential for meaningful community impact.

In partnership with The Harlem Chamber Players, Composers Now presents this year’s commission concert at the Lee C. Bollinger Forum at Columbia University, located at 601 West 125th Street, on November 16, 2026, at 6:00 PM.

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PROGRAM

Miya Masaoka — Mapping a Joyful Path

For violin and fixed electronics

Modney, violin

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Alyssa Weinberg — Table Talk

For prepared vibraphone duo

Clara Warnaar and Colleen Bernstein

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Gabriella Smith — Carrot Revolution

For string quartet

Members of The Harlem Chamber Players

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Bora Yoon — Casual Miracles II

World premiere; Cheswatyr Commission

For strings, flute, clarinet/bass clarinet, Korean percussion, narrator/vocalist and electronics

Bora Yoon, narrator/vocalist and electronic playback

Vongu Pak, Korean percussion

The Harlem Chamber Players

Rebekah Heller, conductor

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ACCESSIBILITY

Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations or who have questions about physical access for an event at the Bollinger Forum should contact theforum@columbia.edu in advance of the event to arrange the necessary accommodations.

The entryways at 601 West 125th Street and 605 West 125th Street are accessible to wheelchairs. Elevators are available to transport guests to each venue floor and to the public, accessible restrooms on the concourse level.