Philip Glass and The Poets on May 17, 2026 | UCSB Arts & Lectures

“Philip Glass is one of the dominant, boundary-crossing influences of the past half century.” The Guardian (U.K.)

Approaching the composer’s 90th birthday, Arts & Lectures presents Philip Glass and The Poets. This special event, featuring some of his favorite interpreters and special guests, celebrates Glass’ extraordinary relationships and collaborations with poets. Throughout his long career, Philip Glass has drawn inspiration from poets’ words, their lives, and the depths of their creative practice. From Rumi to Leonard Cohen and beyond, poetry has played a key role in the evolution of his music. In particular, his friendship with American beat poet Allen Ginsberg spawned multiple collaborations; this evening will include previously unreleased recordings of Ginsberg reading his poetry set to some of Glass’ most intimate chamber music. Co-commissioned by Pomegranate Arts. (Philip Glass will not be performing.)

An Arts & Lectures Co-commission