Philip Glass: Einstein on the Beach

Classics of minimal music

Some 50 years ago, a handful of composers in America set about trying to find a new musical language of their own – distinct from the European avant-garde, which they saw as being too academic and cerebral, and striving to achieve a greater sensuality and joy through sound. Minimal music was born. Philip Glass was one of the best-known proponents of this new sound from the very outset. He has since established a reputation as one of the most renowned living American composers, thanks in part to his many film scores, including for »The Truman Show« and »The Hours«. His first opera, »Einstein on the Beach« in 1975, is a true classic of the minimalism genre. Now there’s a rare opportunity at the Elbphilharmonie to experience this work, which »The Los Angeles Times« recently described as the »most important opera of the last fifty years«.

Please note: The performance lasts approx. 3.5 hours and takes place without an intermission. The bars in the foyers will remain open during the concert, and you are welcome to leave and re-enter the hall.