WHO IS FLOATING POINTS

Journey through the Mere Mortals Soundscape

Sam Shepherd–aka Floating Points–is one of the most respected names in music today. Known for his versatility and insatiable pursuit of exceptional sound, Shepherd is a boundary-pushing composer, curator, producer, and DJ who creates sonic environments that transport the listener into another world. His most recent projects include Promises (2021), a studio album in collaboration with Pharoah Sanders and the London Symphony Orchestra, which was named album of the year by Time Magazine and shortlisted for the Mercury Prize.

Sam Shepherd collaborating with San Francisco Ballet Orchestra // © Paige Green Photography

He is known for his captivating live performances where he often performs with a full band, adding an organic and dynamic element to his electronic music. His live shows are an immersive experience that engages the audience on multiple levels, combining live instrumentation and electronic elements to create a unique and mesmerizing atmosphere.

With this SF Ballet premiere of Mere Mortals, Shepherd composes his first work for the ballet stage, combining live orchestral music with electronic instruments. Artistic Director, Tamara Rojo says, “It started with a conversation with Sam Shepherd/Floating Points about the philosophical questions humanity should be asking itself right now about artificial intelligence. Sam is creating his score with his unique combination of electronic music, synthesizers, and our SF Ballet Orchestra.”