The Irish premiere of a brand new film on iconic composer/improvisor/philosopher Pauline Oliveros
(1932-2016), one of the most extraordinary and influential musicians of recent times.

The Vigil originally grew from “Art in the Cathedral” at St. Fin Barre’s, an event curated by Cork Artists’ Collective that embraced many art forms. Its multidisciplinary outlook is stamped on the Vigil even today, which features a rich diversity of sonic improvisors, dancers and visual artists of many kinds.

The most recent Vigils operate in a unique way: an especially written computer programme generates randomised timetables for every participant, which they receive only as the Vigil begins. No-one knows in advance when they will play or who will be playing at the same time. 

The 11th Sonic Vigil features 23 performers, including special guest David Toop, the celebrated improviser and writer on music, sound and the arts. The performers will be scattered throughout the three floors of the foyer area of the Opera House, and the random timetable will ensure the soundscape will continually evolve throughout the building in an endless kaleidoscope of sound and activities. Audiences will be free to come and go and walk freely amongst the performers throughout the 6 hour event.

Sonic Vigil is now managed by a team of renowned local artists led by composer/performer Karen Power and is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland.

There’s no other event like this in the world - don’t miss it!

Quiet Music Ensemble performs works by composers, sound artists and a dancer employing an eclectic mix of especially made instruments, radical instrumental techniques, graphic scores and improvisation, creating an extraordinary, compelling and contemplative experience. QME has performed in Ireland, UK, Germany and USA, is broadcast worldwide and is funded by the Arts Council of Ireland.