ECHOES: Byzantine Reflections – From Microtonality to Performance

Start date: November 25, 2026
End date: November 30, 2026
Time: 8:00 pm

In Byzantine music theory, echos refers to a mode within the eight-mode system known as the Octoechos, shaping melodic and rhythmic development. As sound, resonance, and a principle of musical organization, the term opens up diverse perspectives on the relationship between structure and expression.ECHOS brings Byzantine traditions into dialogue with contemporary microtonality, extended playing techniques, and performative forms of expression. Rather than directly reconstructing Byzantine chant, the participating composers approach modal structures as flexible systems that can evolve and open up new sonic worlds.Four world premieres for string trio —including one work for string trio and microtonal vibraphone—by Anna Sowa, Edu Haubensak, David Haladjian, and Michalis Paraskakis enter into dialogue with Eleni Ralli’s repertoire piece 5 Mysterious Scenes for solo violin. Together, the five works explore diverse sonic perspectives at the intersection of musical heritage, sonic innovation, and performance.

Programme

  • Anna Sowa – Piece for Three String Players (2026) 
  • Edu Haubensak – W A L K for string trio and microtonal vibraphone (2026)
  • David Haladjian – ECHOES for violin, viola and cello (2026) 
  • Michalis Paraskakis – Geloma for string trio (2026)
  • Eleni Ralli – 5 Mysterious Scenes for solo violin (2020)

False Relationships and the Extended Endings EnsembleMusicians

María Muñoz López – violin
Yu-Yun Peng – viola
Josep-Oriol Miró – cello
Martin Lorenz – microtonal vibraphone

Concert dates

  • 25 November 2026, 20:00 – H95, Basel
  • 27 November 2026, 19:30 – Villa Boveri, Baden
  • 30 November 2026, 20:00 – ONO, Bern

Join us for an exploration of resonance, microtonality, performance and musical heritage across time and cultures.