Music for Vilnius | Michael Gordon. In the courtyard of the former Jewish Council of the Vilnius Ghetto (Judenrat)

One of the world’s best-known composers, the American minimalist Michael Gordon has a family history in Vilnius. Although he has visited the capital city many times, this will be the first time he will present his world premiere here. The composer will highlight the Jewish cultural heritage of Vilnius, which is close to his heart.

The space chosen by the creator – the inner courtyard of the small-scale puppet theatre Lėlė and the National Youth  Theatre – has preserved both light and dark memories of Jewish history: from the activities of the gymnasium, which enriched the city’s culture, to the shocking stories of the Vilnius Ghetto.

As usual, Gordon will invite you on a meditative musical journey. The piece of music for 9 trombones will fill the space with sculptural sounds in a distinctive acoustic, in perfect harmony with the sculpture “Flame of Hope”, which was erected in the courtyard in 2000 to commemorate the Holocaust victims. The audience will also be able to meet the composer and learn more about Jewish Vilnius.

The world premiere of the piece of music for Vilnius in the courtyard of the former Jewish Council (Judenrat) of the Vilnius Ghetto will take place on July 5-6.

The concert at Vilnius Town Hall will be held on May 12.