Exploring the famous 13th century Latin hymn 'Stabat Mater' as a source of musical inspiration, British choir Nonsuch Singers performs Norwegian composer Knut Nystedt’s take on the hymn.
Knut Nystedt, born September 3, 1915, in Kristiania (now Oslo), Norway, is an orchestral and choral composer. He grew up in a Christian home where hymns and classical music were an important part of everyday life. His major compositions for choir and vocal soloists are mainly based on texts from the Bible or sacred themes. Old church music, especially Palestrina and Gregorian chants, have had a major influence on his compositions. In 1966, the King of Norway made him Knight of the Order of St. Olav in recognition of his contributions to Norwegian music.
Nonsuch Singers is increasingly well known for its innovative programmes, high-quality singing and communicative performances. Under the direction of Graham Caldbeck, stylistic versatility has become a recognised hallmark of concerts and the choir's repertoire encompasses a cappella and accompanied works from the Renaissance to the present day. The choir regularly performs with some of the UK's leading instrumental ensembles and finest young vocal soloists.
A Concert for Passiontide
St Giles' Cripplegate, 7.30pm
Fore Street, Barbican
London EC2Y 8DA
Saturday 28th March
Graham Caldbeck (conductor)
Rosie Banks (cello)
Alastair Ross (organ)
Programme:
William Cornyshe: Woefully arrayed
Victoria: O vos omnes; Versa est in luctum
Pablo Casals: O vos omnes
Knut Nystedt: Stabat Mater
Jonathan Harvey: I love the Lord
J. S. Bach: Sarabande from Suite No. 5 in C Minor BWV 1011
Domenico Scarlatti: Stabat Mater
Tickets £15 (£12 concessions). To book, click here.