Magnificat & Gloria

In Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach’s expressive Magnificat, the turbulent emotional world of the late eighteenth century becomes audible. The music bursts with energy, drama, and surprising twists, while Mary’s words of wonder and gratitude take center stage.

Mendelssohn’s Hör mein Bitten is a plea to God for help. The text and music resonate with the fear of death and the intense desire to be delivered from it.

Francis Poulenc’s Gloria then opens up a completely different sound world, in which sparkling joy and stillness alternate.

Together, these works form a musical journey full of light, prayer, and inspiration, while Ramsey Nasr invites us to reflect on how we can open ourselves to this music in today’s complex world.

Ramsey Nasr

Ramsey Nasr, actor, director, writer, and former Poet Laureate, will grace this concert in his own unique way.

First, in general terms: what does it mean for a choir to rehearse such pieces for half a year and finally perform them for a large audience in a large hall? How do choir members experience such an intensive period?

Next, he will take us, performers and audience alike, on a more personal inquiry, during which a number of questions will be reviewed: what is uninhibited joy (Magnificat)? When does it turn into uncertainty or fear (Hör mein Bitten)? Why do we want to flee from this? What are ‘peccata mundi’ (debts of the world)? What are my debts of the world? Or, what are my debts of the world? Is there a solution to this confusing uncertainty and how can it take shape (Gloria!)?

We count on it being an unforgettable evening. You are most welcome.

CJP, Student Card or City Pass

Anyone with a CJP pass, student pass, or city pass can purchase a ticket for a greatly reduced price of €10. This is only possible at the Theater Box Office, upon presentation of the pass.