Performing and Premiering in spite of a Global Crisis: Gerd Kühr’s Corona Meditation and its Usage of Online Platforms

Abstract

Through the challenges that can arise in connection with a global crisis, in which live performances are prohibited, musicians and music institutions, such as concert houses, have to find solutions in order to give the recipients the opportunity to convey music through a different medium. Gerd Kühr’s Corona Meditation for any number of pianos was especially composed to adjust to the recently changing situation concerning the typical structures of concert life. The concept offers a direct connection between technology – here in the form of using a conference programme and a livestream platform – and music itself, as the composer was aware of difficulties that can arise through using an online medium. By examining the mentioned composition, this paper focuses on the aspect of relocating music to a virtual space, using online platforms as potential temporary alternatives to real-life performances and reflection of the streaming culture in general. Connected to all that matters are problems and difficulties during these types of concerts deriving through the existing technological limits.