Concept Lab

What is Concept Lab?

Concept Lab is a contemporary classical chamber series curated by Seth Boustead and Will Rowe that invites composers to challenge themselves, take risks, and try things they might not otherwise. Hosted by Rockwood Music Hall, Concept Lab welcomes performances and workshops alike to be enjoyed by an enthusiastic and understanding audience in a casual, productive, and fun setting. Both productive success and productive failure are part of the Concept Lab agenda, and each show invites all to feel the rough edges of the music-making experience.

Where and When Can I Attend a Concept Lab?

Concept Lab takes place four times a year (more or less) - usually in March, June, September, and December. Rockwood Music Hall is located on the Lower East Side of New York City and our shows are free (though please order a drink during the show to support our venue), so if you happen to be around the Tri-State Area, come on down and get involved!

In 2023, we have three shows in May, September, and December - the first of which features the Sorce-Lodge Duo helping composers work through guitar writing and all of the accessories that come with that, the second featuring workshops from Chicago-based composers, and the third workshopping opera setting.

How Can I Also Make a Mess in the Lab?

Each Concept Lab has a call for proposals. To submit a proposal and try some stuff out with us, visit our page over on Access Contemporary Music’s website.