Between 1958 and 1960, Robert Rauschenberg made drawings for each of the 34 cantos, or sections, of Dante’s 14th-century poem Inferno by using a novel technique to transfer photographic reproductions from magazines and newspapers onto paper. Acquired by The Museum of Modern Art soon after it was completed, the resulting work is now an icon in the collection and an enduring testament to Rauschenberg’s desire to bring his experience of the contemporary world into his art. On the occasion of the exhibition Robert Rauschenberg: Among Friends, MoMA published Robert Rauschenberg: Thirty-Four Illustrations for Dante’s Inferno, featuring newly commissioned works by acclaimed poets Kevin Young and Robin Coste Lewis that respond to Rauschenberg’s celebrated series and offer a personal vision of hell. On September 12, Young and Coste Lewis will read a selection of these works in an evening of poetry and music curated by WQXR’s Terrance McKnight and performed by a host of extraordinary invited guests. An exploration of Rauschenberg’s conversation with Dante across the centuries, this special evening celebrates creativity in dialogue among friends. Live music will be provided by Carman Moore’s world renowned Sky Music Ensemble. I am honored and excited to be performing with this group. Among the players will be my old friends saxophonist Premik Russel Tubbs and violinist Zach Brock. Get you tickets early!