Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University alumna Kari Landry, along with Tim Gocklin, both members of the Akropolis Reed Quintet, have been awarded a GRAMMY for their collaborative album "Are We Dreaming the Same Dream?" The album was recognized at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards on February 2, 2025, winning Best Instrumental Composition for Pascal Le Boeuf's piece "Strands."

The album was released on April 26, 2024, by Bright Shiny Things. It draws inspiration from artists like Geri Allen and Dave Brubeck and explores diverse strands of experience in America. This concept is reflected in Ralph Ellison’s words from "The Invisible Man": “America is woven of many strands; I would recognize them and let it so remain.”

Le Boeuf's work combines classical and jazz elements and features performances by Akropolis Reed Quintet, drummer Christian Euman, and Le Boeuf himself as pianist. The quintet performed this piece in November 2023 at the University Musical Society Chamber Series in Ann Arbor.

Akropolis first connected with composer Pascal Le Boeuf through the I-Park Foundation in 2018. Clarinetist Landry noted that this collaboration marked a unique combination of reed quintet and piano with added percussion by Christian Euman.

Ideas were developed with Le Boeuf in 2019 leading to Part One of "Are We Dreaming The Same Dream?", recorded in 2020. By 2022, they completed recording the full album. This marks Akropolis' sixth studio album and their second appearance on Billboard Charts.

The project received support from several organizations including the National Endowment for the Arts and was completed during Le Boeuf's residency at Copland House.

Akropolis Reed Quintet is known for its innovative performances over its 15-year history. They have premiered over 130 works globally while engaging actively within their Detroit community.

Eastern Michigan University, founded in 1849, serves nearly 13,000 students across various disciplines. EMU is recognized nationally for its educational excellence and diversity.