Dvořák's Stabat Mater and Psalm 149

Dvořák's Stabat Mater and Psalm 149 - Saturday 28 March


Antonín Dvořák

Dvořák's Stabat Mater is a hidden gem!

Czech composer Antonín Dvořák (1841–1904) was hugely influential in his day, combining elements of classical European traditions with the folk music of his homeland. He is known primarily for his orchestral works; everybody recognises the beautiful melody from his Symphony No 9 from a famous Hovis advert back in the 1970s. 

Dvořák’s choral music deserves to stand alongside his most celebrated orchestral works. His great sacred compositions reveal the same melodic gift and emotional directness.

Discovering this hidden gem has been a true delight for us. Halifax Choral Society has not performed it since 1950! We are proud to bring this monumental and deeply human work back to Halifax, and to share with you music of rare intensity, beauty and conviction.

The Music

Composed between 1876 and 1877 Stabat Mater is a profound and emotional setting of a medieval hymn, meditating on suffering. Dvořák composed Stabat Mater after the devastating loss of his three young children within a short period. The music is richly expressive with dramatic moments and strong melodies - don't be surprised if the tunes linger for days in your memory!

By contrast, Psalm 149, written in 1879, is a jubilant song of praise characterized by striking dramatic contrasts, lush harmonies, and a lively energy inspired by the folk music of his nation.

Meet the Artists

We are delighted to welcome our four distinguished soloists  and the National Festival Orchestra

Helena Moore - Soprano
Lauren Young - Mezzo-Soprano
Satriya Krisna - Tenor
Charles Murray - Bass

Our conductor is Music Director of Halifax Choral Society Anthony Gray

The Setting - Halifax Minster

Halifax Minster is the ideal setting for choral music, combining as it does heritage and accoustic in one place. This 900-year-old Medieval Church stands on the site of the original Town Square and remains a centre for community activities.

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