Rachel Beetz / Isaac Sherman / Michael R. Bernstein

On Friday, July 17, 2026, Rhizome DC presents a triple bill of experimental sound artists spanning analog synthesis, electroacoustic flute, and a conceptual take on music without humans. Los Angeles musician and filmmaker Isaac Sherman performs on analog synthesizers, guitar, and voice, crafting improvisations that evoke acoustic instruments through electronic means. Flutist and composer Rachel Beetz, joined by multi-disciplinary artist Alma Laprida, offers works that combine field recordings and electronically modified flutes with textile and lighting elements, exploring themes of environmentalism and community. Alma Laprida, known for her work with the tromba marina, contributes her expertise in composition, improvisation, and instrument building. Closing the evening, Michael R. Bernstein presents Blue Tape Human Liberation Orchestra, a project that satirically envisions a future where music exists free from human imperfection, with slogans like “Save Humans from Music.”

When: Friday, July 17, 2026.

Showtimes: Doors at 7:00 PM, music begins at 7:30 PM; event runs until 10:00 PM.

Tickets: Sliding scale $10–$25; available in advance.

Lineup: Isaac Sherman (analog synths, guitar, voice); Rachel Beetz (flutes, field recordings, electronics) with Alma Laprida (tromba marina, composition, installation); Michael R. Bernstein’s Blue Tape Human Liberation Orchestra.

Run time: Approximately 2.5 hours.

Ages: Not specified; likely all ages, but confirm with venue.

Venue: Rhizome DC, located in Washington, D.C.

Note: Alma Laprida, listed in the full event title, collaborates with Rachel Beetz for this performance; her work spans composition, improvisation, radiophonic pieces, and instrument building, including the rare tromba marina. The Blue Tape Human Liberation Orchestra interrogates the idea of Minimalist music without human performers, blending conceptual art with live sound.