The subject of radio orchestras is a global phenomenon that had its origins in Germany and is associated with exciting stories, great conductors, outstanding soloists and, above all, contemporary composers. The 56-minute documentary “On Air – 100 Years of Radio Orchestras” is the first comprehensive look at how they developed – a cultural history from the technological age closely linked to the history of the 20th century. At the same time, it explores their vision for the future. A film about tradition and innovation, identity, new music and the radio itself.
Cosmos Ligeti
The documentary film explores the Austrian-Hungarian composer Györgyi Ligeti, whose sound-intensive choral and orchestral works, influenced by other sciences and cultures, shaped the music of the 20th century like no other. The composer also became known by Stanley Kubrick, who used Ligeti’s compositions in the films 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY, SHINING and EYES WIDE SHUT. The film aims to make the cosmos of Ligeti tangible and to get closer to the always curious and very demanding man Ligeti, who broke the boundaries of music and interpretation. In addition to many companions, Kubrick’s producer and brother-in-law Jan Harlan appears in the film alongside the pianist Cathy Krier.