OLIVIER MESSIAEN: WRITING AN OLD LIFE ANEW

FRI 20 SEPT, 6PM
DUKE’S HALL
FREE


How does one write a new biography of a well-known composer? This talk by Robert Sholl, also in conversation with writer and pianist Roderick Chadwick (Royal Academy of Music) and the composer Julian Anderson (Guildhall School of Music and Drama), evaluates the life and legacy of Olivier Messiaen (1908-92). Using new photographs, commentary, and sketch materials, as well as performances of his work by student organists Ophelia Amar and Jeremy Ng, it examines critical perspectives on Messiaen’s life and the poetics of his music.