Een imaginaire vespers met Pygmalion

Fascinating quest

The French ensemble Pygmalion is known for its original and idiosyncratic programming. Founder and artistic director Raphaël Pichon is 'one of the most interesting conductors in classical music,' according to The New York Times . And Gramophone writes: 'Pichon is a leading figure of his generation. His music is original and very personal, yet at the same time builds upon the rich tradition that underlies it.'

Imaginary Vespers

The rich sound architecture of Venice, with its spatial boldness and polychoral music, also reached Lutheran countries. Schütz, for instance, studied in Venice with Gabrieli and met Monteverdi there. As a result of the Thirty Years' War, the expression of German composers became more intimate: they wrote small 'geistliche Konzerte', audibly related to Italian motets for solo voice and accompaniment. Structured as a grand Lutheran vesper service, this program brings together the German and Italian masters: Praetorius, Schütz, Scheidt, Monteverdi, and Cavalli respond to one another in a play of echoes and alternation. A concert that culminates in a jubilant celebration of a fusion that has shaped European music.