Do geographical borders still exist in art and communication technologies? Is it still possible to mix cultures without creating at the end the same kind of results? Are we still able to be influenced or inspired by traditional cultures? What is the place of archaism in a world defined by a constant control? Those are the questions which will guide this new edition of Musica Electronica Nova.

The motto “Rituals” will be addressed from several perspectives: Ritual-Machines or Ritual-Voices. The programme will range from chamber concerts up to works for large ensemble. As a signature of the festival, we want to continue to show projects outside of the pure musical fields: dance, installations, performances, video; this direction reflects a big evolution in contemporary music where composers have a need of extending their vocabulary and developing new visions. We will also host premieres of some new works that we commissioned to French, Austrian and German composers as a sign of the European dimension of the festival.  For us, new commissions are extremely important to keep a constant and strong relation with artists from abroad.

We will present a very special version of the Rite of Spring by the David Wampach Danse company, where Stravinsky’s music just appears as a ghost, replaced by obsessional and circular breathings by the performers for 45 minutes! The programme will also include several composers from the last century such as Luigi Nono, Ivo Malec or George Crumb, whose pieces could also be considered from the point of view of ritual and offer a rich counterpoint.

One of the most important question that we wish to open may be: why do we make music today? Does it still have a meaning and if yes what meaning? In this very difficult time that we have been living since 2020, we strongly hope that MEN will be an occasion to be together and share new music experiences, new rituals…

Pierre Jodlowski
Artistic Director of Musica Electronica Nova Festival