On November 24, 2016, the world lost one of Kingston’s most widely respected artists: electronic music pioneer, composer and “deep listening” theorist Pauline Oliveros. It was largely Oliveros who persuaded former mayor Shayne Gallo to create the Kingston Arts Commission, and her last public appearance was this past October during the launch party for the Kingston Midtown Arts District (MAD). According to the composer’s wife and longtime creative partner Ione, “Pauline was deeply moved by the event.”
The City of Kingston owes a lot to this musical innovator, and it’s tough to imagine its current arts-driven renaissance having happened without her inspiration. So it’s entirely appropriate that the Arts Commission is sponsoring “A Celebration Tribute for Pauline Oliveros: An Afternoon of Presentations, Performances and Deep Listening” this Sunday, March 19 from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Kingston City Hall. Many of Oliveros’ friends, students and collaborators, as well as representatives from the City of Kingston and Ulster County, will pay homage to her memory at the event. A reception will follow from 5 to 6 p.m.
For those inspired by Oliveros or curious to learn more about her life and work, the commemoration will provide an opportunity to learn, reflect and listen. Contributors will include mayor Steve Noble, Ione, Peter Wetzler, Susie Ibarra, Richard Teitelbaum, Linda Montano, Deep Listening certificate-holders and members of the Center for Deep Listening at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, as well as many of Oliveros’ longest musical collaborators.
The celebration and tribute are free and open to the public. Seating is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVP at https://oliverostribute.eventbrite.com. City Hall is located at 420 Broadway in Kingston. For more information about the life and work of Pauline Oliveros, visit http://paulineoliveros.us.
Join the family! 
