Works TBD.
As Duo Axis, flutist Zach Sheets and pianist Wei-Han Wu present vibrant performances of music both new and old. We champion the thrilling potential of authentic duo playing, and the unbridled possibilities of flute and piano collaboration. We have performed throughout the US and Europe, in recitals, teaching engagements, and community-based events.
We frame our work as an open-ended question of how a troupe of two—trained as flutist and pianist—can make vivid and three-dimensional performances that emerge from conventional musical practice and go beyond it. We often work closely with composers to create new works and foster a spirit of innovation. We establish long-term partnerships to create vivid and unique works, well-tailored to our artistic vision, while contributing meaningfully to our field’s ever-expanding body of exceptional repertoire.
Duo Axis projects and commissions have been funded by the Amphion Foundation, Barlow Endowment, Arts Center of the Capitol Region, Copland Fund, Ditson Fund, Koussevitzky Foundation, Lower Manhattan Cultural Council, New Music USA, and St. Botolph Club.
Recent university engagements include: Brown University, UC Davis, UC San Diego, University of Chicago, University of Iowa Center for New Music, Mizzou New Music, Union College, University at Buffalo, and more. Performances have been presented by: Qubit (NYC), EQ Concerts (Boston, MA), Æpex Contemporary Performance (Ann Arbor, MI), Houston Flute Club, Cape Symphony Chamber Series, Valencia International Performance Academy, and the Creative Arts Initiative (Buffalo, NY). During these engagements, we often partner with community-based agencies, like Community Music Center of Boston, Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center, Buffalo String Works, or the Washington Music Teachers Association.
We began collaborating in 2014: Duo Axis’ first major project took place in 2016, touring the Midwest and East Coast in a series of concerts featuring new works and premieres, with the generous support of a New Music USA Grant. In 2021, we launched a flagship commissioning project honoring the 50th anniversary of Copland's Duo for flute and piano in 1971—and how our field has grown more robust, diverse, and vibrant since. As part of this project, we commissioned new works by Anthony Cheung, Matthew Ricketts, Carolina Heredia, and Christine Burke. To watch and listen, visit http://www.duoaxis.com/what
We have collaborated closely with many more important early-career composers, such as Tonia Ko (Guggenheim Fellow, 2018); Katherine Balch (Composer-in-residence, Young Concert Artists and California Symphony); Anthony Vine (1st Prize, Gaudeamus Competition, 2016); Gabriel Bolaños, Clay Mettens, Ashkan Behzadi, and more. For a list of upcoming events, visit: https://www.duoaxis.com/when