Hanni Liang is a pianist and concert creator, developing new concert formats which address topics of our time with music. Being active in places like Elbphilharmonie, Edinburgh International Festival, Munich Philharmonic, Jeunesse Vienna, Heidelberger Frühling, Konzerthaus Berlin among others, she has created a programme for peace, warmth, and humanity for the opening of this year‘s Classical:NEXT, starting with two piano works which feel more relevant than ever.

While Philip Glass’ Wichita Vortex Sutra combines minimalist music with Allen Ginsberg’s urgent anti-war poetry which is a message of protest, peace and human connection, reminding us of the power of words and art in turbulent times, Bill Evans’ Peace Piece on the other hand is a quiet refuge. Its gentle, flowing improvisation offers a moment of calm in a restless world. It invites us to pause, breathe, and embrace the warmth surrounding us.

The audience is invited to write down a wish on the card they receive along with a flower upon entering the concert. They can then place the flower into the flower pot, creating a colorful bouquet together. A symbolic gesture of peaceful protest. A programme reminding us of the enduring need for humanity, understanding, and hope.

Programme

Philip Glass: Vortex Sutra
Bill Evans: Peace Piece