Philzuid

Le Sacre du Printemps by Russian composer Igor Stravinsky is one of the most revolutionary works ever written. During the TROMP Competition, Philzuid links this milestone to spectacular work by Toru Takemitsu. As part of the TROMP Competition, Philzuid is breathing new life into several masterpieces from the twentieth century. Stravinsky’s Le Sacre du Printemps is an essential part of the main program. The unprecedented power of Stravinsky’s majestic spring sacrifice still captures the imagination. The dance-like primal rhythm and emotional, melodic sound language of Le Sacre has inspired countless composers. In 1913, a young Stravinsky completed his masterpiece, commissioned by the powerful Russian impresario Sergei Diaghilev and in collaboration with choreographer Vaslav Nijinsky. The ballet and the music made for a sensational premiere. The pagan dance ritual in which a young girl dances herself to death for the gods made a big impression on the posh Parisian audience. The asymmetrical, pounding rhythms still touch everyone deeply in their soul.

Stravinsky’s big bang is accompanied by two kindred, ritualistic orchestral works. The atmospheric rainbow tones of Claude Debussy’s Prelude l’après-midi d’un faune set an unheard-of dream world ablaze. This absolute signature work by Debussy is impressionist music par excellence. Music full of color nuances that you really have to experience live, just like the percussion spectacle From me flows what you call time by Japanese composer Toru Takemitsu. In his oeuvre, Takemitsu combines the Zen spirit of Japanese music with the Western classical tradition and impressionism. This meditative disposition is clearly audible in this exceptional concerto for five percussionists and orchestra.  Takemitsu wrote From me flows what you call time on commission for the centenary of Carnegie Hall New York in 1990. In this serene work, the five percussionists represent the elements of nature: water, fire, earth, wind, and air. The entire hall is immersed in a magical sound ritual. Five percussionists led by specialist Dominique Vleeshouwers take on the challenge together with Philzuid.

In collaboration with Tromp Percussion.

Program

Debussy – Prélude a l’apres-midi d’un faune
Takemitsu – From me flows what you call time
Stravinsky – Le Sacre du Printemps (version Vesna Svyashchennaya, Boosey 1967)