New music has been an integral part of the Elbphilharmonie‘s programme ever since it first opened its doors in 2017. The Grand Hall’s crystal-clear acoustics and unobstructed views from every seat make the perfect setting for an immersive experience into new worlds of remarkable sound. At the same time, the venue’s modern architecture seems to invite and challenge contemporary qualities in music too.
Every two years, the Grand Hall undergoes a transformation into a one-of-a-kind sound gallery dedicated entirely to modern music. This special concert series, the »Elbphilharmonie Visions« festival, is devoted exclusively to orchestral works written in the 21st century. In 2025, the programme features compositions by 16 composers spanning different generations, from the young award-winner Alex Paxton (*1990) to the esteemed old master Helmut Lachenmann (*1935). At the helm of this festival, which showcases cutting-edge music in a Cinemascope format, is Alan Gilbert, chief conductor of the NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchestra since 2019.
In the »Elbphilharmonie Talk«, Gilbert shares his enthusiasm for shaping the sound of our time and delves into the intriguing question of why even those who embrace contemporary visual art often approach modern music with hesitation.
In the »Elbphilharmonie Talk,« Alan Gilbert also describes the fascinating process of how, as a conductor, he develops such a clear sonic vision from studying the score of a previously unperformed work that rehearsals become a matter of fine-tuning the orchestra’s actual sound. He also sheds light on the story of the festival’s origins and reflects on his time as chief conductor of the New York Philharmonic, where he introduced a similar biennial dedicated to new music.
His passion and commitment to contemporary music shine through so vividly in the conversation that it’s impossible not to feel inspired. You end up not only wanting to attend one or two concerts of the »Elbphilharmonie Visions« festival – you want to experience them all.
Elbphilharmonie Visions 2025 :Fri, 7 Feb 2025 – Sun, 16 Feb 2025
Experience a festival of contemporary music as top radio orchestras from Germany and Austria bring the sound of today to the Grand Hall. Over the course of seven compact concerts, you can enjoy works by Helmut Lachenmann, Olga Neuwirth, Francesca Verunelli, Magnus Lindberg, and this year’s commissioned composer, Alex Paxton.
