CCW Singers Premiere ‘Agents of Deterioration’ at the Hirshhorn Museum

CCW Singers Premiere Agents of Deterioration at the Hirshhorn Museum

On October 5, 2024, singers from the Children's Chorus of Washington had the honor of performing Agents of Deterioration, a captivating new work by composers Maia Chao and Ethan Philbrick. This world premiere was commissioned in celebration of the Hirshhorn Museum's 50th anniversary and took place within the museum's galleries, a unique setting that enhanced the audience's engagement with the performance.

Agents of Deterioration confronts issues of artwork decay and preservation, inviting audiences to explore the various factors that can lead to deterioration. The interactive nature of the piece encouraged attendees to move through the galleries, immersing themselves in the experience while reflecting on the delicate relationship between art and time. The decision to feature children’s voices in the composition was particularly poignant, emphasizing the importance of nurturing future generations who will be tasked with safeguarding the stories conveyed through our cultural artifacts.

This performance marked a significant collaboration between CCW and the Hirshhorn Museum's talented curatorial team, particularly Betsy Johnson, co-curator of the Revolutions exhibition, and Amy Bahr, Head of Public Programming. Their vision and dedication made the event not only possible but remarkably impactful.

Prior to the performance, the artistic team engaged in a rich conversation about the project, shedding light on their creative process and intentions behind the work. This discussion offered great insights into the themes of the piece and the collaborative spirit between the artists and the museum's curators.

As CCW continues to foster its relationship with the Hirshhorn, the organization looks forward to further opportunities that celebrate artistic expression and the importance of preserving our shared cultural history. The premiere of Agents of Deterioration stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the meaningful role that youth voices play in addressing contemporary issues through art.