Orchestre philharmonique de Liège Wallonie Bruxelles

Ondrej Adamek composes pieces for orchestras and ensembles as well as music mixed with electronic
sounds. He draws inspiration from various cultures (Bali, New Caledonia and Japan), producing detailed instrumental and vocal work. At First Light, written for a chamber ensemble, secured an international reputation for young composer George Benjamin after being met with widespread acclaim. It was written for the London Sinfonietta, which performed it in November 1982, conducted by Simon Rattle. This piece marks the culmination of Benjamin’s first creative period, showing him to be an exceptionally talented composer at the age of just 22. On his 85th birthday, the OPL pays a double tribute to Pierre Boulez, by featuring composers he supported, and by performing Rituel, his most frequently performed work (his Bolero, if you like), which he dedicated to his friend, Bruno Maderna, who passed away prematurely.

* Belgian première