Composer anniversaries: who we are celebrating this year, and why it matters.

Anniversaries represent a good moment to reflect on past, present, and future. Whether 50 or 100 or 200 years since an artist’s birth (or death), it is a good opportunity to take stock of their historical life, their current status, and their likely – or otherwise – place in the future. 2026 sees anniversaries for Kurtág, Henze and Feldman as well as the 50th anniversary of Britten’s last Festival in June 1976 (and his death in December that year). Join Dr Lucy Walker and guest speakers for an illustrated deep-dive into a century of remarkable upheaval and creativity.

Dr Lucy Walker musicologist