Ensemble Phœnix Basel

In Memoriam Péter Eötvös (2.1.1944–24.3.2024)

The Hungarian composer and conductor Péter Eötvös is considered one of the central figures of contemporary music. Eötvös studied at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest and had a major influence as a conductor of leading orchestras and ensembles.
Eötvös’ compositions are characterised by a precise structure and complex rhythmic and tonal textures. In “The Sequences of the Wind”, Eötvös illustrates eight different types of wind – from calm to whirlwind. In “Brass – The Metal Space”, the concert hall is explored acoustically in a theatrical way. On the occasion of his unexpected death in spring 2024, Ensemble Phoenix Basel is organising a memorial concert with three ensemble works written by Eötvös over a period of 32 years.
Our guest conductor is the Hungarian composer, clarinettist and conductor Gregory Vajda, programme director of the Péter Eötvös Contemporary Music Foundation in Budapest since 2018.

Péter Eötvös:

“Octet” (in memoriam Karlheinz Stockhausen) for flute, clarinet, 2 bassoons, 2 trumpets and 2 trombones (2007)
dedicated to the Reina Sofia School of Music

“Brass – The Metal Space” action piece for seven brass players (2 horns, 2 trumpets, 2 trombones and tuba) and 2 percussionists without conductor (1990)

“Windsequenzen – The Sequences of the Wind” for flute solo, 4 woodwinds, tuba, double bass, bass drum, accordion and wind imitation (1975–2002)
1.    Windless I
2.   Three Sequences of the Mountain Wind
3.   Seven Sequences of the Whirlwind
4.   Sequence of the Morning Breeze
5.   Four Sequences of the Sea Wind – North Wind
6.   Four Sequences of the Sea Wind – South Wind
7.   Four Sequences of the Sea Wind – East – West Wind
8.   Windless II