Arts & Entertainment
Glass Ensemble Debuts: Minimalist Masterpieces at Mechanics Hall
World-renowned group performs Glass classics, including recently rediscovered "Music in Eight Parts," in Worcester on October 18th
Music lovers in Worcester are in for a treat as the world-renowned Philip Glass Ensemble (PGE) makes its highly anticipated debut at Mechanics Hall on Friday, October 18th. This performance marks a significant milestone for Music Worcester, bringing one of the most influential contemporary classical music groups to the city for the first time.
A Night of Glass Classics
The concert will feature two iconic pieces from Philip Glass's repertoire:
- Glassworks (1981): A seminal work that showcases Glass's signature minimalist style.
- Music in Eight Parts (1969): A recently rediscovered composition from Glass's pivotal minimalist period.
The Resurrection of "Music in Eight Parts"
The performance of "Music in Eight Parts" is particularly noteworthy. Composed in 1969, this piece was thought to be lost for decades until its manuscript resurfaced at Christie's Auction House in 2017. The PGE has since rescored the work for their current ensemble, breathing new life into this long-lost masterpiece.Composer and PGE vocalist Lisa Bielawa likens the rediscovery of this piece to finding an unknown Picasso painting from his early Cubist period, emphasizing its significance in Glass's oeuvre.
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The Philip Glass Ensemble: A Musical Laboratory
The PGE, based in New York City, serves as a laboratory for Glass's music and continues to perform his works worldwide. The ensemble consists of accomplished musicians, including:
- Michael Riesman (Music Director, composer, conductor, keyboardist)
- Lisa Bielawa (composer, vocalist, producer)
- Dan Bora (producer, engineer, sound designer)
- Peter Hess and Sam Sadigursky (woodwinds)
- Ryan Kelly (producer)
- Mick Rossi (pianist, percussionist)
- Andrew Sterman (multi-instrumentalist)
A Dream Come True for Music Worcester
Adrien Finlay, Music Worcester Executive Director, expressed his excitement about the PGE's debut, stating, "Engaging the Philip Glass Ensemble for opening night of the 2024-2025 Season is a dream come true". This performance not only marks a long-overdue debut but also offers attendees a unique opportunity to experience a work that was almost lost to history.Don't miss this extraordinary evening of minimalist masterpieces performed by some of the most talented musicians in contemporary classical music. Tickets for the Philip Glass Ensemble's performance on Friday, October 18th at 8 pm at Mechanics Hall are on sale now at musicworcester.org.
