Fine Arts Professor Martin Kutnowski Nominated for an East Coast Music Award

Dr. Martin Kutnowski — composer, pianist, and Fine Arts professor — has been nominated for an East Coast Music Award. 

His composition “Tonadas y Mateadas” was nominated in the category Classical Composition of the Year.

“Tonadas y Mateadas,” which can be translated as “Tunes Sung While Drinking Yerba Mate in a Gathering of Friends,” was composed in 2015. It attempts to recapture the rhythms and moods of different dances from Argentina.

A contemporary composer, Kutnowski’s works combine the musical past with folk materials from his native Argentina. His compositions, ranging from solo to orchestral pieces, have been performed in Europe, Asia and the Americas.

“Tonadas y Mateadas” was featured on the first album by the woodwind quintet Ventus Machina, In the Weeds, which was also nominated for an ECMA in the category Classical Recording of the Year.

“Ventus Machina is Atlantic Canada’s premier woodwind quintet,” Kutnowski said. “Writing a piece for the consummated artists of Ventus Machina is highly stimulating because you know the music will reach audiences with the most expressive power. Working with them is an absolute privilege and pleasure.”

The East Coast Music Awards will be presented in Halifax in May.

The East Coast Music Association develops, advances and celebrates East Coast Canadian music, its artists and its industry professionals throughout the region and around the world.