Contemporary Music

The Studio zeitgenössische Musik (SZM) offers interested music students teaching formats and platforms in the field of contemporary music.

The studio of contemporary music has one of the most extensive programmes of public events within the ZHdK. Many of the issues that constantly arise in older scores can be addressed more directly and immediately in the music of today. The study of music tends to focus on works from past centuries, so that current issues are left out of the picture. Accordingly, exposing people to contemporary music and contemporary cultural perspectives can revitalize the way in which they experience and think about all music. Regular portrayals of iconic composers from throughout the world are one of the key aspects of the studio's programme, which is directed at the music-loving public as a whole. Their music is presented in concerts, workshops, discussion forums, educational events, masterclasses and free-format events. This programme offers all those participating an opportunity for an intensive exposure to the music of today, which is crucial for their professional lives, while at the same time communicating to the public the discovery – both enjoyable and significant – that an involvement with music can be far more than simply an attraction to familiar idioms.