Helmut Lachenmann at the South Bank Centre

Having devoted weekends to modernist composers such as Stockhausen, Messiaen, Nono, Xenakis, Berio, and Varèse the South Bank Centre are now turning their attention to Helmut Lachenmann. Now I must confess that Lachenmann's name is relatively unknown to me but his music is described as musique concrète instrumentale which is a term I've come across. In his music he uses instrumental sounds to emulate electronic music and has invented a wealth of techniques for instruments to use; naturally his music places strong demands on the players.

The South Bank Centre are devoting 2 days to Lachenmann. On Saturday 23rd October there are two concerts of his chamber music, along with a discussion between Lachenmann (now 75) and Ivan Hewett. Then on Sunday 24th October, the London Sinfonietta, under Brad Lubman give a concert of Lachenmann's orchestral music with pianist Rolf Hind.

The weekend presents a rare opportunity to get to know some of Lachenmann's music and enter the 'uncharted sonic realms free of habits of typical concert music' which it promises.

Saturday 23 October 2010: Queen Elizabeth Hall
Lachenmann Chamber Music Day
Tickets: £9–15

3PM – Arditti String Quartet
Lachenmann String Quartet No. 1, Gran Torso
Lachenmann String Quartet No. 3, Grido

4.15PM – Helmut Lachenmann discusses his music with journalist Ivan Hewett

5.30PM – Sarah Leonard (soprano), Rolf Hind (piano), Oliver Coates (cello)
Lachenmann Got Lost for soprano & piano
Lachenmann Pression for solo cello
Lachenmann Dal Niente for solo clarinet

Sunday 24 October 2010: Royal Festival Hall,
7.30PM - London Sinfonietta, Brad Lubman (conductor), Rolf Hind (piano)
Lachenmann Ausklang for piano & orchestra
Lachenmann Schreiben


If you are curious about Lachenmann's music then you can find some examples on his spotify playlist http://open.spotify.com/user/southbankcentre/playlist/4al6RuLlCOHngSAkPut8vo