The Mask of Orpheus
Birtwistle has always been fascinated by Greek drama. Several of his pieces are based on the ritual and formal divisons of Greek tragedy; his opera The Mask of Orpheus is perhaps his most thoroughgoing exploration of the Greek myth. But more than that,
Birtwistle's music seems to aspire to the condition of ancient Greek drama; to effect a similar response in the audience through purely musical means. As part of Radio 3's celebration of Birtwistle's
60th birthday year,
Stephen Plaistow explores the relationship between music, drama and ritual in his work, in conversation with composers, performers, directors, librettists and other artistic collaborators who have worked with him.
Producer Christopher Marshall See also Monday 9.30pm