Carnegie Hall

There is visceral power, high energy, droll wit, hyper-emotive Romanticism, and sheer daring in Jörg Widmann’s music. These qualities have won him numerous high-profile commissions from and countless performances by soloists, chamber ensembles, and major orchestras around the world. A much sought-after virtuoso clarinetist and dynamic conductor, he has performed his own works—as well as works by other composers—with Daniel Barenboim, Mitsuko Uchida, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, and a host of other great artists.

Jörg Widmann is also holder of the 2019–2020 Richard and Barbara Debs Composer's Chair at Carnegie Hall. During his residency, all facets of this musical chameleon will be showcased. His powerful orchestral works are featured in concerts by The Cleveland Orchestra, Munich Philharmonic, Mahler Chamber Orchestra, and The MET Orchestra. Recognized for the striking originality of his chamber music, an all-star ensemble headlined by violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter gives the New York premiere of his new work for string quartet. Widmann displays his formidable skills as a clarinetist, playing his own music as well as works by Schumann and Mozart in a trio with violist Tabea Zimmermann and pianist Dénes Várjon. He does double duty with the Irish Chamber Orchestra, conducting his own music and playing the clarinet, and with the International Contemporary Ensemble in a program devoted to his works.