A screening of the film “From Zero-19 Questions for John Cage,” and a panel discussion open a yearlong School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) celebration of Cage.
The 7:30 p.m. Wednesday showing of the film at the Walgreen Drama Center happens on what would be the 100th birthday of the late avant-garde composer. The event will include a panel featuring U-M faculty discussing Cage’s life, artistry and legacy.
Known mostly as a pioneer of the 20th-century avant-garde and experimental music movement, Cage’s interests extended beyond music into dance, writing, visual art, as well as the study of mushrooms. His artistic perspective and unique compositional approach have influenced a generation of musicians and composers.
The yearlong celebration of his life, music and artistic legacy will feature activities led by SMTD faculty and students. Events to be scheduled throughout the 2012-13 academic year include concerts, film screenings, lectures and other Cage-inspired happenings to honor the composer and his pioneering work.
