In today’s modern times the world is for the young, or at least those who pretend to be! In the same way, art has to glide along lightly in a relaxed and natural fashion, although at the end of the 19th century it was the exact opposite. In the same way as every 18 year old male had to have a thick ‘Grandfather beard’, the most innocent of piano pieces had to be expanded to monumental proportions. Trends come and go. However, we would like to recommend one particular 19th century monument to you – “Nänie” by Brahms. It is music tinged with gold, so beautiful it almost brings tears to the eyes. The soprano chorus begins with the profound words “Even beauty must die” – and on hearing this opening, rest assured you will feel mature, wise and free of all of life’s struggles:

Helmuth Rilling Conductor
Anke Vondung Alto
Dominik Wortig Tenor
Michael Nagy Baritone
Gächingen Chorale
Bach-Collegium Stuttgart

Johannes Brahms

Nänie op. 82 based on texts by Friedrich Schiller 

Wolfgang Rihm
Stille Feste based on texts by Novalis 
devoted to Helmuth Rilling for his 80th birthday

Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy
First Walpurgis Night op. 60 based on texts by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Finishing time approx.: 8.00 p.m.