The Galway premiere of Black Angels, by American composer George Crumb, which was inspired by the Vietnam War, will be performed by The Galway Ensemble in Residence, ConTempo Quartet and the renowned percussionist, Chen Zimbalista on July 24 at 8.00pm in St Nicholas Collegiate Church.

The concert, which is part of the Galway Arts Festival, sees the realisation of a dream for ConTempo. Black Angels has a global cult following and is widely recognised as one of the most challenging ensemble pieces ever written. Written 40 years ago it is still startling and hypnotic in its appeal.

“ConTempo are hugely excited to be given the opportunity to perform this piece,” says the quartet’s cellist Adrian Mantu. “We are delighted that the Arts Festival have agreed to include it in this year’s programme. We are also truly looking forward to playing with Chen Zimbalista whose vibrant performances we have enjoyed and admired for some time.”

Chen Zimbalista is an Israeli percussionist whose programmes are taken from the classical, blues, jazz and occasionally from the rock repertoire.

With ConTempo he will also perform Concerto for Marimba and Strings by Brazilian composer Ney Rosauro. In addition, Zimbalista will play an exciting selection of percussion solos. He is the winner of several international competitions and has performed at the Kennedy Centre, with the Detroit Symphony, the Israel Philharmonic, and the Symphonica Brazilera, among others.

During his visit to Galway, Chen Zimbalista will also present a master class for Galway musicians on July 24 at the Galway Education Centre.

To book for this concert, contact the www.galwayartsfestival.com, Galway Arts Festival Box Office, Galway Tourist Office, Forster Street 091 566577.

For masterclass bookings: The Galway Music Residency, 091 586706 or info@thegalwaymusicresidency.ie