Random Access Music’s opening program of the 2018-19 season, “Modern Americana,” celebrates quintessential American sounds from this century and last. In honor of Leonard Bernstein’s centennial, RAM clarinetist Thomas Piercy and guest pianist Karén Hakobyan will perform his Sonata for clarinet and piano, a work reflecting his youthful enthusiasm. Ned Rorem’s 95th birthday will also be celebrated as RAM’s soprano Risa Renae Harman joins Tom and Karén to perform “Ariel”, an angular and hyper expressive work, speaking to the modernist lyricism of 20th century American music. RAM Cellist Kate Dillingham joins the team to perform newer works that explore these and other continuing veins in American music with music by Missy Mazzoli and Conrad Tao as well as RAM composers David Fetherolf and Kamala Sankaram.