Sonica and RSNO: The Bowie Symphony (No.4) by Philip Glass

Part of Sonica Glasgow 2026

Marking ten years since David Bowie’s death, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra returns to Sonica Glasgow with a transcendent celebration of musical innovation. Conducted by Patrick Hahn, the evening features Symphony No. 4 “Heroes”, a sweeping orchestral re-imagining of Bowie and Brian Eno’s iconic 1970s album that drew its inspiration from the then-divided city of Berlin. 

The programme also includes the ritualistic Prelude from Akhnaten, Glass’s hypnotic opera inspired by the revolutionary Egyptian pharaoh, whose austere harmonies and slowly unfolding structures evoke timeless ceremony and transformation.

Visual artist Tatsuru Arai enhances the experience with sumptuous generative visuals that transform Glass’s sound world into one of shimmering light and motion.

The concession rate for this event extends to under-21s, Musicians Union (MU) Members and Sonica Artist Pass holders.

ACCESS
Highly Visual - No text
Good for sub-pacs - limited numbers available at Tramway

Audience notes
A seated/standing performance - feel free to bring your own cushion.
Performance includes glitching visuals.

Programme
Philip Glass Prelude from Akhnaten (1983)
Philip Glass Symphony No. 4 “Heroes” (1996)
Conductor: Patrick Hahn
Live Visuals: Tatsuru Arai

“The most thrilling conjunction of visuals and performance”
Clash Magazine on Sonica Glasgow