Abendlied

Description

The program of this concert combines choral music and organ works from five centuries into a varied musical journey through the history of sacred music. The focus is on the interplay between the human voice and the sound of the organ – two forms of expression that complement, contrast, and enrich each other. The renowned choral conductor Stephen Layton is a guest for the first time at the Zurich Sing-Akademie and has put together an entertaining yet very intimate program for choir and organ. HYMNS AND EVENING MUSIC
The works of the Renaissance by Palestrina and Monteverdi show the clarity and balance of early vocal polyphony. Schütz continues this tradition with German linguistic power and sonic precision. In these compositions, the pure choral sound is in the foreground: transparent, flexible, and directly connected to the text. With Johann Sebastian Bach's Fantasia in G major, the organ emerges as an independent concert instrument. Its sonic variety and architectural power form an exciting counterpoint to the vocal works and open new musical perspectives within the time – and the program. EMOTION AND INTIMACY
Romanticism expands the expressive possibilities of choir and organ with warmth, dynamics, and emotional depth. Mendelssohn, Rheinberger, Hensel, and Brahms combine sacred texts with rich harmonies and often chamber music-like fine choral writing. Especially the quieter works of the second part of the program create a concentrated, inward-focused atmosphere. With César Franck's Chorale No. 3 and the works of Pierre Villette, the program extends into the 20th century. Here, traditional sacred forms and modern sound language meet in a fascinating way. STEPHEN LAYTON CONDUCTS THE ZURICH SING-AKADEMIE FOR THE FIRST TIME
With the Zurich Sing-Akademie and organist Tobias Willi under the direction of Stephen Layton, a concert is created that makes the diverse possibilities of choir and organ music audible: from a cappella-like vocal writing to the great sonic development of the organ, from the Renaissance to modern times. Participants and additional information:
Tobias Willi: Organ
Zurich Sing-Akademie
Stephen Layton: Conductor

Highlights

• Choral music and organ works from five centuries
• Renowned choral conductor Stephen Layton as guest
• Works by Palestrina, Monteverdi, and Bach

General Information

The concert "Abendlied" takes place in the Evangelical Reformed Church St. Peter in Zurich. It offers a musical journey through the history of sacred music, with a special focus on the interplay of choir and organ.

Location

St. Peterhofstatt 2, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland

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