Karl Blench - Open Source (Timothy Jones; Axiom Quartet)

Information

Composer: Karl Blench

1. Open Source: I. Lost Voice
2. Open Source: II. Opening: Remarkable
3. Open Source: III. What This Town Needs
4. Open Source: IV. Source Material
5. Open Source: V. Building Trade
6. Open Source: VI. Workout
7. Open Source: VII. Hitch
8. Open Source: VIII. Open Door

Timothy Jones, baritone

Axiom Quartet

    Matthew Lammers, violin

    Timothy Peters, violin

    Katie Carrington, viola

    Patrick Moore, cello

Date: 2026

Label: Navona

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OPEN SOURCE is a musical work performed by the Axiom Quartet and baritone Timothy Jones that reflects the First Congregational Church of Houston’s values of openness, inclusion, and spiritual exploration. Featuring a libretto by Jacqui Sutton inspired by an archival interview with the church’s founders, it follows a universal journey of seeking belonging. Karl Blench’s score draws on a hymn from the church’s hymnal, transforming it to express the inner experiences of both the individual and the community. Together, the elements create a narrative of spiritual searching, culminating in the discovery of sanctuary within a welcoming, diverse faith environment.

Karl Blench is a Houston-based composer, conductor, and educator known for expressive, large-scale works described as both powerful and emotionally resonant. He holds undergraduate degrees from the University of New Hampshire and completed his master’s and doctoral studies in composition at Rice University after beginning his career as a middle school music teacher. His music has been performed internationally by ensembles such as the Axiom Quartet and at major venues including Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. An accomplished arranger and orchestrator, he has also worked on projects like Wild Symphony. Blench currently serves as music director of Symphony North of Houston and lectures at Rice University.

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