Inuksuit
Each performance of Inuksuit is different. Here is a brief explanation from John Luther Adams’ program notes:
“Inuksuit is inspired by the stone sentinels constructed over the centuries by the Inuit in the windswept expanses of the Arctic. The word “Inuksuit” translates literally: “to act in the capacity of the human”. This work is haunted by the vision of the melting of the polar ice, the rising of the seas, and what may remain of humanity’s presence after the waters recede.
“Inuksuit is a concert-length work for percussion, in which the performers are widely dispersed and move throughout a large, open area. The listeners, too, may move around freely and discover their own individual listening points. This work is intended to expand our awareness of the never-ending music of the world in which we live, transforming seemingly empty space into more fully experienced place.”
“Inuksuit is inspired by the stone sentinels constructed over the centuries by the Inuit in the windswept expanses of the Arctic. The word “Inuksuit” translates literally: “to act in the capacity of the human”. This work is haunted by the vision of the melting of the polar ice, the rising of the seas, and what may remain of humanity’s presence after the waters recede.
“Inuksuit is a concert-length work for percussion, in which the performers are widely dispersed and move throughout a large, open area. The listeners, too, may move around freely and discover their own individual listening points. This work is intended to expand our awareness of the never-ending music of the world in which we live, transforming seemingly empty space into more fully experienced place.”
INUKSUIT at PASIC50
Session Description:
To celebrate 50 years of PASIC, PAS is organizing an extraordinary musical experience in downtown Indianapolis at the beautiful White River State Park on Saturday, November 15 at 1:30 pm. Known for its immersive and environmental nature, Pulitzer Prize-winning composer John Luther Adams’ Inuksuit is a concert-length composition for percussion instruments designed to be performed outdoors. This project will be led by PAS Hall of Fame Member and world-renowned percussionist Steven Schick, who commissioned Inuksuit on behalf of the “Roots and Rhizomes” percussion course at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, and has led performances throughout the world over the past 15 years.
This performance opportunity is open to PASIC attendees 18 years and older. Performers will be expected to provide their own instruments, register for PASIC50, and cover all travel/lodging costs associated with attending PASIC. PAS will provide storage space for instruments for the duration of PASIC. In the case of inclement weather, the performance will be moved indoors to the Indiana Convention Center. Learn more and apply here: https://percussivearts.tfaforms.net/4729006
This performance opportunity is open to PASIC attendees 18 years and older. Performers will be expected to provide their own instruments, register for PASIC50, and cover all travel/lodging costs associated with attending PASIC. PAS will provide storage space for instruments for the duration of PASIC. In the case of inclement weather, the performance will be moved indoors to the Indiana Convention Center. Learn more and apply here: https://percussivearts.tfaforms.net/4729006
Session Category:
- Percussion Ensemble
Date:
Saturday, November 15, 2025
Time:
1:00 PM
Location:
White River State Park
Session Type:
Session Format:
Live
