Kevin Volans Spotlight

Kevin Volans is one of the world’s least predictable and most distinctive composers. Early in his career Volans studied in Cologne with Karlheinz Stockhausen and Mauricio Kagel and was previously listed by BBC Music Magazine as one of the 50 most important living composers. Today, Volans’ music is regularly performed by many of the top international orchestras and ensembles.

His first commission for BCMG, the quiet and contemplative The Partenheimer Project, was premiered in 2008 at Birmingham’s Ikon Gallery. His second promises to be a substantial, high-energy and spectacular piece for piano and ensemble. The internationally acclaimed Barry Douglas joins BCMG to premiere Piano Concerto No. 4 – the first Sound Investment premiere of the scheme’s 25th anniversary year.

“Douglas’ powerful playing always compels and rewards attention”

— The Guardian

The other premiere of the evening, String Quartet No. 12, comes from one of the most distinguished string quartets of its generation, the Cologne-based Signum Quartet – here making their Birmingham debut. Collaborations with living composers are an integral aspect of this outstanding Quartet’s work and we are delighted to welcome them into our 16/17 programme.