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South ��ֱ���� State University music professor Aaron Ragsdale will present a recital featuring a fusion of percussion and electronics at 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 24, in the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center. 

Ragsdale’s program draws inspiration from some of literature’s most profound works, including George Orwell’s “1984” and Kurt Vonnegut’s “The Sirens of Titan.” Through a blend of traditional percussion instruments and modern electronic elements, the recital explores several different ways that composers can bring these literary worlds to life through sound. 

A highlight of the program will be the regional premiere of “Saturn, still returning” by composer Broxson. This new work for percussion and electronics blends the acoustic sounds of vibraphone, glockenspiel and kick drum with both fixed and live-processed media. 

The program will also include a piece by composer Alexis Bacon: “Ojibwe Song” for vibraphone, percussion and electronics. This work utilizes the voice and text of First Nations Ojibwe speaker Alphonse Pitawanakwat to create a poignant metaphor for the rebirth of the Ojibwe language.  

Ragsdale will also be joined by SDSU alumna Tanna McMahon for a performance of Steve Danyew’s “Chorale Variations” for marimba duo. Known for its intricate rhythms and harmonic depth, this piece will showcase the dynamic capabilities of the marimba, creating a rich and engaging experience for the audience. 

“I’m incredibly excited to present a program that blends the worlds of literature, language and music,” Ragsdale said. “The regional premiere of ‘Saturn, still returning’ and the powerful ‘Ojibwe Song’ are both pieces that deeply resonate with themes of identity, reflection and renewal.” 

This event is free and open to the public.