Why did the Holocaust change the course of music forever? How did America, through the CIA, become the biggest funder of avant-garde composers?

This year-long festival inspired by Alex Ross’ book The Rest Is Noise, uses film, debate, talks and a vast range of concerts to reveal the fascinating stories behind the century’s wonderful and often controversial music.

The music is set in context by a fascinating team of historians, scientists, philosophers, political theorists and musical experts as well as films, online content and other special programmes.

Over the year, The Rest Is Noise turns the spotlight on 12 parts of the century. In the first half of the festival, from January to June 2013, we move from Richard Strauss and the breakdown of the old world to the influence of Stalin and Hitler on music via the cosmopolitan glamour of inter-war Paris. In autumn 2013 visit the 1960s, Hollywood and Downtown New York and look at artists behind the Iron Curtain.

Through listening to this extraordinary, rich and eclectic repertoire and hearing about the events that shaped its composition, we hope to bring a completely new dimension of understanding and enjoyment to you, the audience.

Many event involve the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. To see the full programme of event, click here for the Southbank Centre website and click here for Guildhall events.