The times have never been as dark and uncertain for composers of new operatic works, but every crisis presents its opportunities; the times suggest that the less costly but not often performed smaller-forces opera, also known as chamber opera, may be entering its heyday.

Performance injury among musicians is an issue of no small matter: a recent study identified that as much as 65 percent of the music student population suffers from a performance injury. But spreading awareness among composers of the potential that compositions may have on performer’s bodies is in its infancy.

The Sacramento region boasts a unique and vibrant small new music scene where tradition is less important than the spirit of unfettered exploration.