Beethovens „Missa solemnis“ in historischer Aufführungspraxis in der Philharmonie

In the organizer's words:

In 1904, 120 years ago, members of the Berliner Volksbühne founded the "Berliner Volks-Chor", since 1974 the "Berliner Oratorien-Chor". It was the first choir made up of working people in Berlin to perform choral symphonies and oratorios with orchestra and soloists. To mark its anniversary, the choir presents itself with Ludwig van Beethoven's "Missa solemnis" in historical performance practice.

The "Missa solemnis" is one of the most important compositions in music history and sees itself as a composition of the Enlightenment. However, it is rarely performed. One reason for this is its enormous musical and physical challenges. In terms of both musical content and structure, the composition pushes the boundaries of the familiar. It was written in 1819 for the elevation of Archduke Rudolph to Archbishop: Beethoven was to compose a solemn mass for the enthronement. However, his schedule did not work out. He struggled with his work for four years, searching for an individual way to deal with the old texts and the traditions of mass composition. In doing so, he not only broke with liturgical obligations, but also created a new musical language.

Concerto Brandenburg, the Schlachtensee Concert Choir and the soloists Flurina Stucki (soprano), Rita Kapfhammer (alto), Ludwig Obst (tenor) and Haakon Schaub (bass) will be taking part. The conductor will beThomas Hennig, a choirmaster and composer of many years' standing. In order to come close to the original sound of the Missa solemnis, the "old" instruments of Concerto Brandenburg are tuned a quarter tone lower than usual.

Price information:

20-37 euros (plus additional costs if applicable), reduced tickets at €10 are available for pupils, students and wheelchair users on presentation of proof in advance and at the Box Office. Tickets at Ticketmaster, CTS Eventim and all advance booking offices served by CTS/TM or via www.berliner-oratorienchor.de