Glass' early compositions were greatly influenced by Ravi Shankar and the hypnotic rhythms of Indian music. Although his scores are often labeled as minimalist, he prefers to call it 'music with repetitive structures'.
In Glass Pieces, choreographer Jerome Robbins incorporated concepts from postmodern dance into the traditional ballet vocabulary, infusing the work with a distinctly urban energy. The recurrent rhythms, driving momentum, and labyrinth of shifting patterns of the ensemble combine to create a physical architecture for Glass' music.
2018 is the year the dance world comes together to celebrate the centennial of Robbins (1918-1998) in a global celebration of the director and choreographer whose creative genius during the 20th century continues today. Having created film, theater, and dance that has resonated for generations, Robbins is rightfully regarded as a towering figure in American cultural history.
As part of the celebrations, both Paris Opera Ballet and Boston Ballet will present Robbins tributes (including Glass Pieces). In June Les Étés de la Danse presents Chicago's Joffrey Ballet performing Glass Pieces. New York City Ballet performs Glass Pieces and Morton Gould's Interplay in May.
Watch:
Russell Janzen, New York City Ballet principal dancer, shares his Glass Pieces experiences
New York City Ballet tickets:
Glass Pieces
Interplay
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