1958
In 1963, Max Neuhaus solidified his reputation as a premier interpreter of Karlheinz Stockhausen’s Zyklus through a broadcast on WBAI radio in New York.
The WBAI Broadcast (December 20, 1963)
Neuhaus was interviewed by John Corigliano, who was then the music director for WBAI. The discussion focused on Neuhaus's rigorous process of interpreting and preparing Stockhausen's complex graphic score.
The interview was followed by a recorded or live performance of Zyklus. Neuhaus noted that while Stockhausen intended the piece to be played spontaneously, the logistical challenge of managing 21 percussion instruments made true spontaneity nearly impossible without months of intensive practice.
Neuhaus eventually developed a unique approach to the work, consulting directly with Stockhausen to manage the spatial and rhythmic complexities of the piece.
John Corigliano interviews the young Max Neuhaus in 1963 on New York radio station WBAI.