Stay On It: The Music of Julius Eastman

Ecstatic repetition, hypnotic rhythms & collective chaos: an all-star ensemble celebrates the radical sound world of Julius Eastman.

Led by music director Brian Lawlor, a 17-musician ensemble performs Eastman’s landmark works Femenine  – with its shimmering sleigh bells and slowly shifting sonic landscape – and the exuberant, groove-driven Stay On It .

A singular figure in the New York experimental music scene of the 1970s and 80s, Eastman created a bold and unmistakable musical language – hypnotic, exuberant, and politically charged. His works combine the pulsing repetition of minimalism with improvisation, pop influence, and a powerful sense of collective musical energy.

The program also includes screenings of the films Joy Boy: a tribute to Julius Eastman and A Different Score, illuminating Eastman’s life, artistry, and lasting influence.

ARTISTS

Alexander Babikov | guitar

Nika Bauman | flute

Mario Bergamasco | guitar

Maria Chlebus | marimba

Sarah Maria Dragović | viola

Marko Ferlan | bass

Thomas Grimm | basson/sax

Leonie Maria Groessl | violin

Igor Gross | vibraphone

Erin Jorgensen | marimba

Tara Khozein | voice

Lukas Lauermann | cello

Brian Lawlor | piano

Hasti Molavian | voice

Mona Matbou Riahi | clarinet

Emily Stewart | violin

Alexander Yannilos | electronics/drum kit

Films by Anaïs Ngbanzo (France) and Victoire Karera Kampire, Mawena Yehouessi, Fallon Mayanja, Paul Shemisi, Rob Jacobs, & Anne Reijniers (France, Belgium, DR Congo)

Instrument build by Chris Janka

Presented in collaboration with Takt Kulturverein

Tickets here