Jon Raskin (B. 1954; HEPPNER (OR) – BARITONE ALTO, SOPRANINO SAXOPHONES ELECTRONICS, CONCERTINA. Jon Raskin, a Rova founder member, was a key figure in the early stages of his career. He participated in new music ensembles that were directed by John Adams (San Francisco Conservatory of Music), and Dr. Barney Childs at the University of Redlands. Raskin was the music director of Tumbleweed Dance Company (1974-1977), and was also a founding member and founder of the Blue Dolphin Alternative Music Space. He also participated in the creation and operation of the Farm, an art project that included a community garden and Ecology Center, Dance and Theater companies, and the creation and maintenance of a park. As a Rova member, some of his highlights include composing a collaborative piece for SF Taiko Dojo/Rova and working with Howard Martin on “Occupancy”. He also composed music for Mr. Bungle/ Rova. Yo Miles performed Miles Davis’ music at the Fillmore. The Glass Head Project with Inkboat, and the ongoing Electric Ascension Project. Raskin has been awarded numerous grants and commissions for a range of creative projects, including a NEA composer grant to Poison Hotel, a theatre production by Soon 3 (1988); Reader’s Digest/Meet the Composer (1992).
