MAO XX Anniversary Series

Each evening of our anniversary concert series, MAO XX, is closely connected to the work of the past two decades, yet brings something entirely new: every concert is a premiere, further enriching the unique and diverse repertoire established during the MAO's first twenty years.

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On the third night of the jubilee series, the Modern Art Orchestra (MAO) puts the sounds of the future in the spotlight. Two young, exceptionally talented pianist-composers, Elemér Balázs Jr. and Krisztián Oláh, will present their new, large-scale works.

Elemér Balázs Jr.'s composition, Five Scenes Based on Goethe’s Faust, reflects on the classic work's timeless themes in a unique style that blends film score and jazz influences. Krisztián Oláh's new work, the MAO Suite, is built upon the character of the orchestra, articulating richly textured, rhythmically exciting musical landscapes in the language of modern jazz.

Both composers will also feature as pianists during the concert, allowing the audience to directly experience what it's like when the composer is also the performer. The evening is not only a result of the MAO's mission to nurture young talent but also offers a compelling vision for the future possibilities of contemporary big band jazz.