Grammy® and Emmy®-winning Time for Three defies convention, merging classical, Americana and singer-songwriter traditions into a singular, remarkable sound that captivates audiences worldwide. Consisting of Ranaan Meyer (double bass, vocals), Nicolas “Nick” Kendall (violin, vocals) and Charles Yang (violin, vocals). They return to Walton Arts Center for one performance only on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 7 pm.
The performance is part of our 10x10 Arts Series, a curated series showcasing innovative and intriguing art forms to the Northwest Arkansas community. We asked them to answer 10 questions to help audiences better understand who Time for Three is and what to expect with this stringed trio performance.
Ranaan Meyer, double bass
What can audiences expect when they come see this performance?
Audiences can expect an experience that is energetic, deeply musical and a little unpredictable. Time for Three brings together the precision and artistry of three world-class musicians with the freedom, spontaneity and connection of a live band. We move across musical boundaries: classical, jazz, folk, rock and everything in between, while always staying rooted in the power of three musicians listening and responding to one another in real time.
Photo by Shervin Lainez.
More than anything, we want people to leave feeling that they experienced something with us, rather than simply watch a performance. There is virtuosity, but there is also humor, vulnerability, improvisation and a genuine sense of discovery.
What drew you to this performance field?
For us, it was the desire to make music that felt completely alive. We love the classical tradition, but we are also curious about everything that exists outside of it. Time for Three grew out of a friendship and a shared instinct to ask, "What happens if we take all the music we love and put it in the same room?"
That curiosity became a way of making music and eventually a way of connecting with the audience. We discovered that there was enormous freedom in bringing different musical languages together, and that audiences were excited to come along on that journey with us.
What are some memorable experiences you’ve had while sharing this performance with others?
Some of the most memorable moments have been when you can feel an entire audience let go of what they thought a concert was supposed to be. We've played for audiences who arrived expecting one kind of experience and found themselves laughing, moving, singing or hearing a familiar piece of music in an entirely new way.
We've also had incredible moments performing alongside major orchestras and in very traditional concert halls, where the contrast between the setting and what happens onstage creates something electric. But often the most meaningful moments are quieter: meeting someone afterward who tells us that the performance changed the way they think about classical music or, even better, that it made them want to make music themselves.
Those moments remind us why we do this. Music has the ability to create a shared experience between strangers, and that connection is still the most exciting part of performing.
Charles Yang, violin
Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups? If so, what are they?
Being on the road as much as we do, we all try to stay healthy by working out and catching up on sleep. The MOST important thing though is right before we walk on stage, Time for Three and our tour manager Dave Ross all do a fist bump to guarantee a good show. It has worked every time.
What have been your favorite musical collaborations or projects to work on?
We are so lucky to collaborate with so many different people in the music world. From award-winning classical composers like Kevin Puts to legendary songwriters such as Liz Rose ... each collaboration is inspiring and a complete learning experience. There are definitely no favorites because they all are!
Photo by Shervin Lainez.
Pick 5 words that best describe your work.
Energy, spontaneity, organic, lyrical, atmospheric
Nick Kendall, violin
As a trio, what are some unique things about you guys that makes the group work well together?
I have experienced first-hand time and time again, the true goodness that exists within Ranaan and Charles' hearts. There is a fundamental trust, respect and appreciation for each other that makes anything between the three of us fold into one another. I think this is a very unique quality that exists within this group.
What songs, podcasts, artists or comedians are you currently listening to?
Manolo Sanlucar playlist! It will make anything better!
Whom do you define as a visionary; and why?
Maestro Yo-Yo Ma. Does he really need an explanation? He is so much more than just one of the most sought-after cellists that ever existed.
What is the best advice you have been given?
Always be chivalrous.