Please join the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra on November 15, 2024, for a breathtaking concert involving the New Zealand premiere of Lera Auerbach's Icarus, led by the renowned conductor Vasily Petrenko.
Originally premiered at the Vervier Festival in 2011, Icarus has captivated audiences around the globe, evolving into a masterful orchestral work that distills its powerful essence into a dynamic fifteen-minute journey.
This symphonic poem draws inspiration from the poignant Greek myth of Icarus, exploring themes of ambition, hubris, and the tragic beauty of flight. Auerbach’s composition is a visceral experience—turbulent, emotional, and darkly beautiful – a masterpiece that has resonated with professional ensembles worldwide.
“Icarus is an absolutely magnificent symphonic poem, which tells us about the Greek mythology of Icarus and his death. The work is powerful, dark, mysterious, tumultuous, beautiful and brave.”
Alex Burns – Classicalexburns 17/08/22
"The title Icarus was given to this work after it was written. All my music is abstract, but by giving evocative titles I invite the listener to feel free to imagine, to access his own memories, associations. Icarus is what came to my mind, listening to this work at that time. Each time I hear the piece—it is different. What is important to me is that it connects to you, the listener, in the most individual and direct way, that this music disturbs you, moves you, soars with you, stays with you. You don’t need to understand how or why— just allow the music to take you wherever it takes you. It is permissible to daydream while listening or to remember your own past. It is fine not to have any images at all, but simply experience the sound. These program notes are a door to your imagination. The music is your guide. But it is up to you to take the step and cross the threshold.”
"Light blinds.
To see—we turn away.
Our eyes hold all images inverted.
Every day a new Icarus kills himself."
Lera Auerbach
