Alfred University Performing Arts Instructor Ken Luk and the Rochester classical music ensemble fivebyfive have a hit
When Ken Luk, adjunct instructor in Alfred University’s division of Performing Arts, isn’t in a classroom, he frequently is making music with the Rochester classical music ensemble fivebyfive. The ensemble, entering its ninth year, plays modern chamber music, much of it written by composers writing specifically for the group.
When Ken Luk, adjunct instructor in Alfred University’s division of Performing Arts, isn’t in a classroom, he frequently is making music with the Rochester classical music ensemble fivebyfive. The ensemble, entering its ninth year, plays modern chamber music, much of it written by composers writing specifically for the group.
While most of the musicians play traditional chamber instruments, Luk plays electric guitar. He notes it is not a common instrument in the classical music world, but fivebyfive’s inclusion of the plugged-in instrument reflects their commitment to promoting and performing contemporary chamber music.
“There are so many effects with the electric guitar,” he says. “I can play with distortion, or delays, which expands the group’s musical palette.”
Fivebyfive began performing nine years ago, and Luk is in his third year with the ensemble.
Now, he and his fellow musicians have a hit on their hands. The group’s new album, “Eclipse,” reached the number-two spot on Billboard magazine’s Traditional Classical chart earlier this month.
Fivebyfive and Luk are in heady company. Yo-Yo Ma and Katryn Stott’s “Merci” is in first place.
As a member of the ensemble, Luk joins Artistic Director Laura Lentz (playing flute), Eric J. Polenik (bass), Haeyeun Jeun (piano) and Executive Director Marc Webster (audio/visual artist). “Eclipse” is the group’s fourth album. Earlier works are: “Of and Between (2021), “The Play Album” (2023), and Breath and Fire (2023).
The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle recently reported on fivebyfive’s success, noting the ensemble has received two grants from the New York State Council of the Arts – for $10,000 and $25,000 – and a $2,500 award from the Ralph Wilson Jr. Foundation Arts & cultural Initiative.
As an adjunct instructor in Alfred University’s Division of Performing Arts, Luk teaches through private lessons, providing instruction in both acoustic and electric guitar. Born and raised in Hong Kong, he performs in numerous solo and chamber music settings. He also is a cofounder of Rochester Classical Guitar and the Rochester Mandolin Orchestra, and organizes events to promote classical guitar and mandolin in the Greater Rochester Area.
To listen to fivebyfive selections, click here.