Vadim Gluzman Champions COmpass REsonance’s Bold Journey Through Time and Sound
Vadim Gluzman, credit: Marco Borggreve (left); Gluzman performing with COmpass REsonance.
COmpass REsonance (CORE) is redefining what it means to experience music. Formerly known as the Boulder Bach Festival, this Colorado-based virtuoso string band has emerged as a trailblazer, connecting centuries of musical tradition with bold, modern innovation. Whether bringing ancient manuscripts to life or electrifying contemporary works, CORE delivers performances that transcend time, leaving audiences captivated by their artistry.
For violinist Vadim Gluzman, a recent collaboration with CORE was nothing short of transformative. Known for his breathtaking virtuosity and profound musical insight, Gluzman found in CORE an ensemble that shared his devotion to creating deeply communicative music. “Playing Bach is like climbing Mount Everest,” he says. “To do it with people who are attuned to your vision and share the same artistic goals is incredibly inspiring. That’s exactly what I found with CORE.”
This connection sparked not only artistic synergy but also plans for future projects. The pairing of Bach’s timeless works with music by Ukrainian composer Valentin Silvestrov was a meaningful highlight for Gluzman, who was born in Ukraine. “Silvestrov’s music, influenced by Bach, feels like an extension of that tradition,” he explains. “To explore these works with CORE was profoundly personal for me, and it’s an experience I hold very dear.”
CORE’s evolution, from its roots in the Boulder Bach Festival, reflects a bold vision for what a string ensemble can achieve. While its foundation remains deeply rooted in the historical performance of Bach’s works, CORE now ventures far beyond the traditional. The ensemble’s ability to seamlessly navigate a repertoire spanning 500 years—from Baroque masterpieces to contemporary commissions—makes each performance a journey through musical time.
This versatility extends to their concert experiences, which often incorporate video and dance collaborations, transforming performances into immersive, multisensory events. CORE’s mission is clear: to invite audiences to experience music as a living, breathing art form that bridges past and present.
Gluzman’s collaboration with CORE is emblematic of this mission. From their shared use of Baroque bows to their mutual dedication to authentic, immediate music-making, the partnership underscores CORE’s commitment to artistry of the highest caliber. “Working with CORE was one of those rare moments of artistic happiness,” Gluzman shares. “Everyone was united in the goal of communicating the music with honesty and passion.”
Despite its forward momentum, CORE remains dedicated to its roots. Its flagship event, the Boulder Bach Festival, continues to celebrate Bach’s genius while exploring the musical worlds that influenced and were influenced by him. This balance of tradition and innovation is what makes CORE truly unique—an ensemble as much about preserving history as it is about reimagining it for the modern age.
For Gluzman, this duality is what makes CORE such a compelling partner. “The way CORE navigates the intersection of historical performance and contemporary innovation is remarkable,” he says. “I cannot wait to see our ideas come to fruition in future recordings and live concerts.”
As CORE continues to redefine the classical music landscape, its collaboration with Gluzman serves as a shining example of its mission. With artists of his caliber endorsing the ensemble’s work, CORE’s influence is poised to extend far beyond Colorado. Gluzman’s enthusiasm is unmistakable: “CORE is a true gem—an ensemble that understands the importance of connecting with audiences through music. It’s not just about performance; it’s about creating an experience that resonates.”
Through its artistry, innovation, and commitment to honoring tradition while embracing the future, CORE is crafting a legacy that promises to resonate for generations to come.
