Cheswatyr Commissions 2026

Returning to New York, the anniversary season advances on Monday, November 16 with the Cheswatyr Commissions Premiere at The Forum at Columbia. 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 12-piece 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 Forum at Columbia University, located at 601 West 125th Street, on November 16, 2026, at 6:00 PM.

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