Presented by Park Avenue Armory
October 14–18, 2026 — Wade Thompson Drill Hall, New York

“One of the most vital and original ensembles on the American music scene.” — The New York Times

About the Program

Alarm Will Sound joins Park Avenue Armory for a landmark staging of Steve Reich’s Music for 18 Musicians, marking the 50th anniversary of its premiere and the composer’s 90th birthday. Under the direction of Alan Pierson, the piece is reimagined inside the vast Wade Thompson Drill Hall as a cycling, durational performance—musicians encircling the audience, the music’s interlocking forms made visible as well as heard.

Three generations of players come together for it: the original Steve Reich Ensemble, Alarm Will Sound, and the next generation of musicians from the Manhattan School of Music, with connective interludes by guest artists between cycles. The result is less a concert than a ritual—immersive, contemplative, and ecstatic—that opens space to hear one of the defining works of American music from the inside out.

Movement and associate direction are by John Heginbotham, with lighting by Urs Schönebaum and sound design by Mark Grey.

About Alarm Will Sound

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Alarm Will Sound continues to expand what it means to make music in the 21st century. Equally at home in concert halls and clubs, the ensemble champions voices that redefine genre and tell the evolving story of American music in all its complexity.

Details

Dates: October 14–18, 2026
Performances: Wednesday–Saturday at 7:00 PM; Sunday at 3:00 PM
Run time: approximately 3 hours 30 minutes (general admission and assigned seating available)
Tickets: from $55 — armoryonpark.org