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CutTime®

Americanizing classical music so it works more broadly

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About

CutTime Productions (aka CutTime®) resets the context of classical music for a much wider public in breweries, eateries and homes, as well as churches, schools and other stages. It features two small ensembles with a huge mix of lively hits, plus a burning passion to finally Americanize the classical arts in meaningful ways.

At the center of all this are the accessible "classical-soul" compositions of founder-bassist Rick Robinson (aka "Mr. CutTime"). During 22 years in the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, he quickly developed his artistic skills into a charitable mission to share his passion and license with those who avoid formal concerts.

Then in 2010, as part of the Classical Revolution movement, CutTime stepped up, proving how classical music can be both educational and entertaining (edu-taining) in clubs. Its versatile string quartet CutTime Simfonica added light drumming, DJ-style hosting, audience eggshakers, jazz improvisation, rock covers, even street poets. CutTime has also partnered with orchestras, music festivals and music schools, and has won grants from both the Knight and Kresge foundations, plus over $100,000 in private support.

Why? Because there is real need for regular people to have cheap, regular and relevant access to this powerful-yet-mystical art form. Let's face it... Many fear being bored, shushed and confused at concerts. Many just don't see the point at first.

But we might turn on our family and friends where they already go for fulfilling live music. Here we might flip "classical" on its head as dramatic, hilarious, sexy and bluesy. Here we might fulfill the promise of public domain with indelible shortcuts into ancient, wordless music, and touch people of all walks. Here we might even hook and prepare newbies to "upgrade" to full concerts; a secondary goal.

Robinson has been an innovative force in bringing chamber ensembles into nontraditional venues and classrooms, mixing it up with a variety of creative repertoire and generally proving that classical music belongs not on the fringes of contemporary culture but at the heart of everyday life. – Mark Stryker, Detroit Free Press

Robinson is bringing classical music to the masses— which may be one of the most challenging jobs in all of music. – Amy Haimerl, Crain’s Detroit Business

Your support-- funding, referrals and advice -- are critical to this effort. Help us build effective new windows into the classical arts. Donate generously today to help us touch thousands generously tomorrow!

Learn More: http://www.cuttime.com