KATRINA BALLADS is a brand new collection of songs inspired by the tragic events surrounding Hurricane Katrina. This work uses entirely primary-source texts to paint a rich musical portrait of that devastating and telling week in September 2005. Setting the words of flood survivors, relief workers, politicians and celebrities, New York composer Ted Hearne creates a cutting-edge musical experience and a vivid look into America's darkest hours. The music is rhythmic, theatrical, and American to the core, possessing an edgy post-minimalist drive and a deep jazz influence. It is a moving performance, challenging us to remember and reflect upon our own history.

KATRINA BALLADS was premiered on May 31, 2007 at the Circular Congregational Church in Charleston, South Carolina, as a featured performance of the Piccolo Spoleto Festival. Musicians came from New York, San Francisco, Chicago and Charleston to make up the world-class band which brought audience members to their feet in ovation at the end of the 65-minute song cycle. Stay tuned to katrinaballads.com for more information about upcoming performances.