Ukrainian composer Alla Zagaykevych in focus of ‘Ukraine & Beyond’ project which was launched since the beginning of Russia’s war of aggression to set an example and focus on Ukraine’s rich culture.

In that series were so far portrayed the two Ukrainian composers: Valentin Silvestrov and Borys Lyatoshynsky.

Alla Zagaykevych, born in 1966, is one of the most important living composers in Ukraine. She was a member of a Ukrainian folklore ensemble and founded the Studio for Electronic Music at the Music Conservatory in Kyiv. And just as her homeland and avant-garde unite in her vita, Alla Zagaykevych also gives room to many musical facets in her music. She writes symphonic as well as electroacoustic music, composes for chamber ensembles and creates her own multimedia performances.

You are listening to the piece “To keep silence” from 2002, composed for piano and electronics. Countless sounds ring out at the same time, reminiscent of flashes of light and play of colors, and create a lasting restlessness and disturbance. Following the 15-minute track is a real challenge, but those who engage with Zagaykevych’s music will be rewarded with an exceptional listening experience.

The Ukrainian pianist Vitalii Kyianytsia has specialized in music from the second half of the 20th century and today. He is particularly passionate about electroacoustic piano music, free jazz and interdisciplinary art projects. He is a co-founder of the “Sed Contra Ensemble”, an ensemble for contemporary music, and has been a guest pianist in the Ensemble Modern in Frankfurt am Main since 2018.

Rafael Rennicke will conduct the conversation between the two performances.

A cooperation with the Ukrainian Institute.