Wolfgang Rihm's death in the summer of 2024 not only caused consternation and deep sadness in the music world, it also left an immense gap. The composer's almost incomprehensible productivity, his simultaneously sensual and intellectually sharp approach to everything aesthetic and, last but not least, the sheer spiritual and physical presence of Rihm the man: all of this is now missing. Far and wide, there are no recognizable instances that could satisfy the longing for such forces.

As present as Rihm was in the cultural life of Germany and beyond for decades, he has now suddenly fallen silent. The Heidelberger Frühling, to which Wolfgang Rihm was closely associated over the decades – all of his string quartets were performed here as recently as January 2022 – is now honouring the master with a day of celebration: 'A Celebration of Wolfgang Rihm' includes top-class performances of his works and pointed contributions. The audience and the composer's many companions are invited to meet and reminisce together.

The festive day begins with a performance of Rihm's groundbreaking Music for Three Strings from 1977. Ilya Gringolts, renowned violinist and chamber music virtuoso, Lawrence Power, award-winning violist, and Nicolas Altstaedt, celebrated cellist and interpreter of contemporary music, present the three-part, almost hour-long masterpiece by the then 25-year-old composer, which was completely at odds with the zeitgeist of New Music at the time. Looking back, it is clear how many characteristic elements of the later Rihm were already present in 1977.

16:00 – 17:15

Also bookable in the Rihm Pass (includes all three events of the day)