SECOND ANNUAL BIG EARS FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES INITIAL LINEUP
TO BE HELD MARCH 26-28, 2010 IN KNOXVILLE, TN

Vampire Weekend

The groundbreaking Big Ears Festival – slated for the weekend of March 26-28, 2010 in Knoxville, TN – is excited to unveil the initial lineup for the upcoming year’s event. Building on the visionary programming of last year’s inaugural festival, the 2010 Big Ears expands with a remarkable lineup of even greater depth and breadth than its predecessor; with over 30 artists/bands expected to perform some 50 concerts in at least eight venues this year.

In addition, there will be art exhibitions, installations, film screenings, workshops, interactive experiences, lectures, and discussions.

Initial Big Ears Lineup:

Vampire Weekend
Joanna Newsom
St. Vincent
Andrew WK
The Ex
Gang Gang Dance
Clogs
802 Tour (Nico Muhly, Doveman, Sam Amidon, with Nadia Sirota)
The XX

Javelin
DJ/Rupture (solo)
DJ/Rupture and Andy Moor
My Brightest Diamond
The Calder Quartet
Gyan Riley
jj

Visionary American minimalist composer Terry Riley has been confirmed as artist in residence. Celebrating his 75th birthday in 2010, several of Riley’s compositions will be performed throughout the weekend, including an all-star ensemble for his seminal “In C,” and performances by the composer himself.

Bryce Dessner, best known as guitarist for the acclaimed rock band The National, has signed on this year as a curator for the festival. He’s involved in selecting artists to perform during the weekend, commissioning new work, and conceiving of several unique programs.

The Inner Ear Weekend Festival Pass is on sale now. This limited edition pass offers premium access to all Big Ears happenings throughout the entire weekend (subject to available capacity) as well as exclusive invitations and access to select special events as well. They may be purchased here or by calling 865.684.1200 Ext. 2 between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. EST.

Tickets for individual concerts and events will go on sale in early January. At that time, the schedule of events for the Big Ears weekend will be announced as well.

More artists will be announced in the coming weeks, along with other information about programs, exhibitions, installations, workshops and more.

Launched in February of 2009, Big Ears was created as a forum to present the most exciting music of our time, while exploring connections and interfaces between music, visual art, and film. The brainchild of Ashley Capps, also known as the founder and co-producer of the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, Big Ears was a great success, receiving rave reviews from audiences, artists, and critics alike and achieving immediate international recognition and acclaim.