Phoenix Rising

************************************************************ ** ************************************************************ * Mystical, lyrical, dramatic at times and always thoughtful and emotionally compelling, the dual musical vision of composer Wendy Loomis (piano) and arranger Monica Williams (flute) drives a deep sense of transcendence and spirituality that can only be captured in metaphoric terms. Phoenix Rising is much more than a flute and piano duo. In addition to often using a rotating guest artist (hang drum, cello, guitar, guzheng, or vocals) they incorporate their large collection of ethnic flutes and percussion instruments from all over the world, making Phoenix Rising one of the most innovative and versatile ensembles in the Bay Area. India's bamboo bansuri flute is hardly a jazz instrument, but that doesn't stop Wendy Loomis from writing original jazz pieces for Bansuri and piano. In fact they are one of the only Northern American ensemble using bansuri in blues works. Phoenix Rising combines aspects of new age, world, classical, and jazz styles into their music bringing magnificent scenescapes of light and energy to audiences of all demographics.In November 2008, Wendy and Monica attended the Hollywood Music Awards as nominees in the new age/ambient music category. The HMA is the only red carpet style event of its kind in the world that celebrates music in new visual mediums and gives equal attention to signed and unsigned artists. Their music is currently contracted by 10 TV and film licensing companies and can be heard in several films. They have performed at events such as Austin Women’s Literary and Music Festival, Pro Arts Concert Series, Trinity Chapel Concert Series, World Flute Fest at Chapel of Chimes in Oakland, and the Napa Wine and Film Festival to name a few.Wendy and Monica originally met as members of the larger spoken word and music ensemble Copus, which was co-founded by Wendy and Bay Area poet Royal Kent. Wendy, who earned her Master’s in education from Syracuse University and bachelor’s degree in creative arts from Denison University, has performed and recorded a broad range of compositions, many of which can be heard on her six CD. Monica is a graduate of Eastman School of Music and has performed with orchestras in Chicago, Rochester, and Cincinnati.“Thank you both for playing for our Sunday event. You sounded great. Your professional training was clear when you hit the deck ( stage) running & with full presence despite your arduous, round-about journey to wildwood farm.......Your music carried all the way through out the grounds.”- Sara, Wildwood Farms Earth Day Festival**************************************************** ************ .. .. .. .. .. .. ..

Myspace Backgrounds
Phoenix Rising Live at Don Quixote's
Phoenix Rising at Hollywood Music Awards
For You