The Folding Space Conduction Ensemble explores the Conduction Lexicon established by the maestro Lawrence D. “Butch” Morris and passed on to Carlos Santistevan by the great JA “Dino” Deane. Using 46 different signs and gestures, the ensemble is able to create real-time large ensemble spontaneaous music that exists in a genre-less space blurring the lines between improvisation and composition.
Carlos Santistevan played bass and electronics in J.A. “Dino” Deane’s Out of Context Conduction ensemble for over a decade. During this time, Carlos was gifted a deep knowledge and understanding of the works and legacy of Butch and Dino. Shortly before Dino’s passing in 2021, Dino entrusted the archives of Out of Context to Carlos. Carlos has digitized and studied over 100 rehearsals and is producing recordings to release a series of Out of Context LP’s to preserve Dino’s legacy. The first LP is from a raucous performance at the 2006 High Mayhem Festival.The LP can be listened/purchased here:
After working on the archives for a couple years, Carlos had a calling to take up the baton and serve as a Conductor to continue the Conduction Legacy establised in New Mexico by Dino in 1997. He has enlisted both veteran players from the Out of Context as well as fresh voices and instrumentation to this Conduction Legacy Project. The group began in Spring 2024 and had it’s official debut on April 27, 2025 at The Outpost Performance Space in a Tribute to JA Dino Deane. Video of the performance is here:
“In Santistevan’s hands, Dino’s baton continues to conduct new sonic explorations, ensuring this rare musical form persists and evolves for future generations to discover.” – SF Reporter
The Folding Space Conduction Ensemble Consists of:
Carlos Santistevan- conductor
John Flax -text
David Forlano- electronics/sampling.
Katie Harlow- cello
Rosie Hutchison – violin
Marya Errin Jones– vox/electronics
Sean Kennedy – tuba
Keely MacKey – cello
Alex Neville- electric bass
Chris Ogden – bassoon
Ben Tempchin – electric Guitar
Joseph Sabella – vibraphone
Alicia Ultan- viola
Milton Villarrubia III – drums/percussion