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Barbican announces Philip Glass Ensemble – Early Works: 1973-1984, plus support for Beth Gibbons

A selection of composer Philip Glass’ most celebrated early works from 1974-1984 will be performed by the Philip Glass Ensemble at the Barbican this September.  

Founded by Philip Glass in New York City in the late 1960s, the Philip Glass Ensemble comprises the principal performers of the composer’s music. Its purpose was to develop a performance practice to meet the unprecedented technical and artistic demands of his compositions. As such, the ensemble became a creative wellspring for Glass, and its members remain inimitable interpreters of his work. The artists of the PGE have a unique position in the history of music and are dedicated to passing on their legacy to the next generation of musicians and the authentic practice of Philip Glass's music. 

Programme

• Philip Glass Civil Wars (1984)
• Philip Glass Grid (Koyaanisqatsi, 1982)
• Philip Glass Facades (Glassworks, 1983)
• Philip Glass Part 8 (from Music in 12 Parts) (1973)
• Philip Glass Satyagraha - Rescue (1979)
• Philip Glass Akhnaten - Funeral (1983)
• Philip Glass Photographer Act III (1983)

Produced by the Barbican 

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SUPPORT ACT ANNOUNCED

Emerging from a decade of reflection and change Beth Gibbons (of Portishead) presents her most personal album yet, Lives Outgrown. With lyrics inspired by mid-life, motherhood, anxiety and the menopause, this album is full of textural wonder as Beth Gibbons spent a decade searching for drum beats that felt entirely new. 

Starting with a carboard box Beth worked with Lee Harris (of Talk Talk) and James Ford to build an unconventional drum kit that included a paella dish, a metal sheet, bits of the mixing desk and a cowhide water bottle. The result? Subtle and extraordinary sounds that weave around the guitar and vocals. 

Support comes from Merseyside singer-songwriter and composer Bill Ryder Jones, whose latest album Iechyd Da was released in January 2024 (Domino). 

Produced by the Barbican 

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