Pyrography + the Nunnery

Thursday, October 1, doors 6:30, show 7 pm

UUC, 421 S. Farwell Street, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Pyrography began as a quartet project in 2024, documenting original compositions that explore the intersection of written form and spontaneous expression. Expanded to a quintet, a follow-up record was released on May 29, 2026.

The Nunnery will open the show. A longstanding project of Sarah Elstran, the Nunnery creates live loops with voice and other sounds from the air—her most recent recording is Ascending, available here and on all streaming sites.

Pyrography Quintet

Paul Hecht · piano

James Davis · trumpet

Michael Hudson-Casanova · alto saxophone

Ben Dillinger · bass

Gustavo Cortiñas · drums

Praise for Pyrography II

“Throughout the record, the group demonstrates a high level of telepathic interplay, balancing Hecht’s academic background and structural complexity with a soulful, outward-facing approach that makes the music as accessible as it is intellectually engaging.” —Bob Osborne, World of Jazz 798

“Hecht isn’t standing still . . . Pyrography II is a record that rewards attention.” —Tim Larsen, Jazz Views

“. . . an ambitious modern jazz album blending post-bop energy, theatrical composition, and controlled improvisation. The record stands out for its intricate structures, emotional ambiguity, and a strong ensemble performance that blurs the line between written music and spontaneous creation.” Indispensable/highest rating —Thierry De Clemensat, Paris Move