NPR Upper Great Lakes News, Music, and Arts & Culture

Northern Arts & Culture • Public Radio 90, WNMU | Nov 20, 2024

Kurt Hauswirth is a Classical Music Host, Programmer, and Producer who presents local arts and culture features and interviews with musicians, composers, and authors for NPR's Public Radio 90, WNMU-FM: Upper Great Lakes News, Music, and Arts & Culture.

Victoria and Stuart of the acoustic folk duo Imaginary Expedition have a story as serendipitous as the music they create. The pair met just over a year ago during a non-musical event but stumbled upon a room filled with instruments. Before long, they were engrossed in an impromptu jam session that lasted hours, marking the start of their musical journey together.

Their upcoming concert at the St. Ignace Public Library, on Tuesday, November 26th at 5 p.m., promises an hour of original acoustic music. It’s also a charitable event, encouraging attendees to donate packaged and canned foods for the St. Ignace Food Pantry, a cause close to their hearts.

Victoria’s musical journey began with singing and ukulele, while Stuart brings classical piano expertise, having graduated from the New England Conservatory in 2022. “I’ve played piano since I was five,” Stuart noted, adding that he draws on classical, folk, and even Irish music traditions to shape their sound.

The duo’s sound combines counterpoint vocals with intricate instrumental work. Stuart’s classical influences shine through his guitar playing, while Victoria’s melodies bring a contemporary edge. Stuart’s use of the recorder adds a distinctive texture, elevating their arrangements beyond traditional folk conventions.

In addition to live performances, Imaginary Expedition has begun recording their music. They plan to release two-song collections, showcasing their collaborative process. “Our music reflects our journey,“ Victoria said. "We hope it resonates with people and inspires them in their own lives."

Imaginary Expedition will perform at the St. Ignace Public Library on Tuesday, November 26th, at 5 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring packaged and canned food donations for the St. Ignace Food Pantry.

- Kurt Hauswirth, NPR Upper Great Lakes News, Music, and Arts & Culture (Public Radio 90, WNMU-FM)

Episode 36 • Nov 10, 2024

Lix Cox hosts this podcast about sharing loss, celebrating love, moving forward as an individual, and the healing journey. This episode is about an event on Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in Natick, MA called Dedtalk, where Imaginary Expedition performed alongside Liz and others.

"They go by the name Imaginary Expedition. They were so incredible—they are just both very musically gifted. Their names are Stuart and Victoria. If anyone knows me, you know I am a sucker for any music. They were just so beautiful.

...

I found out after the performance that this was only their 5th show they had done together—they recently have decided to perform together. And I was shocked. I told them I feel like they have done so many shows. It was just really cool. They sang about songs that were in relation to death and grief. It was just a wonderful experience.

...

They are currently working on recording some of their music… so right now you have to hear them live. They do perform in Toronto and Boston, so there’s a couple different places you can find them."

- Liz Cox, "I Want To Call My Mom" Podcast | Instagram | Spotify