This week’s classical pick comes a little earlier in the day since one of the events is in the early afternoon. The picks showcase two well-recognized Germans, one of whom is making a rare visit to LA and one who has made his presence known in Los Angeles as the “Poet Laureate of Skid Row”. The Goethe-Institut of Los Angeles is collaborating with Monday Evening Concerts to celebrate the life and works of Helmut Lachenmann, one of the most influential composers of our generation. These events are held in smaller and newer venues that you should definitely check out in the near future.

The documentary “'Where I Have Never Been Before:' The Composer Helmut Lachenmann" is being screened today at the Goethe-Institut (with refreshments from Breadbar!). Lachenmann will participate in a Q&A session with the director Bettina Ehrhardt, and will include a performance of Lachenmann’s “Dal Niente” by clarinetist Shizuyo Oka. You’ll be hard pressed to find another event where you can pay five dollars to get food, film, discussions, and a performance. On Monday the M.E.C. season draws to a close with an all-Lachenmann program. Lachenmann performs "Ein Kinderspiel," paired with a few other pieces performed by members of the Ensemble Recherche of Freiburg.

who was known as the Poet Laureate of Skid Row?

The REDCAT has programmed an interesting mix of poetry reading and music. The works are inspired by some of Charles Bukowski’s most incendiary writings, featuring Angeleno composer-performers. You would find me there this Friday, if I hadn't already bought tickets to see a performance of the Grieg Piano Concerto.

Sunday Morning Films with Lachenmann
Sunday, April 13th, 2008, 11 AM
Goethe-Institut of Los Angeles

Monday Evening Concerts
Monday, April 14th, 2008, 8 PM
Zipper Hall @ the Colburn School

Ordinary Madness:Musicians Meet Bukowski
Friday, April 18th, 8:30 PM
REDCAT @ the Walt Disney Concert Hall