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Lucas Blondeel

Seven last words - classical

Haydn

Seven last words is about the last words (actually sentences) that Jesus uttered from the cross before he died, according to tradition. This dramatic scene is a key moment in the history of Christianity and has inspired many composers. In this pair of concerts, Haydn’s 'classical' version (concert 11.10.2022) is juxtaposed with a modern interpretation by Sofia Gubaidulina (concert12.10.2022).

Haydn was so fascinated by the Seven Last Words that he wrote several versions based on them. The first was for orchestra, the second for string quartet and the third was an oratorio. In between them he also gave his blessing to a keyboard arrangement made by a colleague.

This version is the most intimate of them all: without words and in hushed, slowly expanding lines, it sublimates Christ’s sacrificial death into beauty, with an unprecedented finesse.

Tue 11 Oct 2022 · 18:30
Hollands College
Tue 11 Oct 2022 · 20:30
Hollands College

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