“Koyaanisqatsi” With The Philip Glass Ensemble

“Koyaanisqatsi” (koy-ahn-iss-KOT-see), from the Hopi language, translates roughly to “life out of balance” or “state of life that calls for another way of living.”

This extraordinary experience melds film and live music for an immersive, wordless portrait of the relationship between nature, humanity and technology. In a special 40th-anniversary return engagement of this mesmerizing event, The Philip Glass Ensemble (PGE) performs the groundbreaking Philip Glass soundtrack live while the pioneering 1982 film “Koyaanisqatsi” unfurls on the screen. Without dialogue or narration, “Koyaanisqatsi” relies entirely on powerful imagery and the hypnotic, propulsive score to convey its vision. Through time-lapse photography, slow motion and juxtaposed imagery, the film captures the beauty and turbulence of the modern world, moving from vast landscapes to the frenetic pace of urban life. 

Upon its release, “Koyaanisqatsi” became a landmark in experimental cinema and is credited with influencing generations of filmmakers and visual artists. “Koyaanisqatsi” lets you experience the acceleration and density of modern society in a new way, inviting you to consider the challenges of technology and the notion of progress in the world — a world out of balance. The score is regarded as one of the most iconic and influential film soundtracks of the last century.

The Philip Glass Ensemble comprises the principal performers of the music of Philip Glass, who founded the PGE in 1968 in New York City. Its purpose was to develop a performance practice to meet the unprecedented technical and artistic demands of his compositions, and its members remain inimitable interpreters of his work.

Top image: The Philip Glass Ensemble. Photo © Ryuhei Shindo.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

The Philip Glass Ensemble is the exclusive performer of its repertoire. Please note that Philip Glass will not be performing as part of this concert. 

By special arrangement with Philip Glass and Dunvagen Music Publishers, Inc.

The Philip Glass Ensemble is represented by Devi Reddy of Park Avenue Artists.
 

About the Liquid Music | Northrop Series

Expand your idea of how music flows through contemporary dance, film and beyond. The Liquid Music | Northrop Series brings boundary-pushing works to the Northrop stage. Immerse yourself in these dynamic performances from exceptional collaborations.