Iveta Apkalna / Organ Concert

At the first performance in 1962, the work triggered a serious scandal, but it has long since become established as a modern classic: György Ligeti’s »Volumina«, which makes do without any structures like melody or rhythm, being based instead solely on variations in timbre. This key work of contemporary organ music is the centrepiece of tonight’s recital given by Latvian organist Iveta Apkalna. Unlike in 1962, however, the Elbphilharmonie’s titular organist need not fear that the Ligeti piece will be more than the instrument can cope with. Her programme also featuring works by Sofia Gubaidulina and Lionel Rogg is a concert full of contrasts and extremes.