One really has to turn to works of the stature and standing of Bach’s Passions to find a counterpart worthy of Claudio Monteverdi’s »Vespro della Beata Vergine«. In this performance by the Balthasar Neumann Ensembles, the »Vespers of 1610« promises to be a historically informed and highly virtuosic concert experience.
The enormous spectrum of this monumental work ranges from the sensitive intimacy of delicate unison to the dazzling prism of sound produced by a ten-part double choir. And Monteverdi did not miss the opportunity to illuminate all the nuances between these two poles in the 13 movements of his Vespers.
The soloists from the ranks of the Balthasar Neumann Choir thus have ample opportunity to showcase everything their vocal chords can offer, from operatic vocal duels to heavenly harmony. The evening is led by Lionel Sow – as a Knight of the »Ordre des Arts et des Lettres«, this fascinating artist and regular guest conductor of the choir has the stature required to lend the evening a fitting splendour!
PERFORMERS
Balthasar-Neumann-Orchester ensemble
Balthasar-Neumann-Chor und -Solisten choir
Lionel Sow conductor
PROGRAM
Claudio Monteverdi
Vespro della Beata Vergine »Vespers of 1610«
