‘Wilhem Latchoumia & Stephane Ginsburgh’

Karlheinz Stockhausen first had the idea for the formula for Mantra during a car trip in the United States in 1970. This melody, which the composer preferred to call a “mantra” rather than a theme, is developed in 13 sections, which are repeated 12 times (156 sections in all). “The mantra doesn’t vary. Not a single note is ever added, it is never accompanied or embellished. The mantra always remains the same, revealing itself in its 12 characteristics with its 13 notes,” Stockhausen explained. For Mantra, he used an electronic process (called ring modulation) to amplify and transform the sound of the two pianos. Stephane Ginsburgh and Wilhem Latchoumia will first perform Max Reger’s arrangement for two pianos of the Prelude and Isolde’s Liebestod from Richard Wagner’s opera Tristan and Isolde, before tackling Mantra. A unique opportunity to hear the work of two composers who are considered figureheads of total artwork.