Google's search algorithms recently revealed an interesting mistake. Searches for 'John Taverner' lead not only to the well-known Renaissance musician, but also bring forward the 20th-century composer 'John Tavener'. The spring festival of AMUZ, TAVE(R)NERinPRIMETIME, shows that an apparent typo can trigger a fascinating journey of discovery through music history. What do you know about Taverner and Tavener?
TAVE(R)NERinPRIMETIME, the spring festival of AMUZ, runs from 11 to 25 February and explores the differences and connections between the English composers John Taverner (ca. 1490-1545) and John Tavener (1944-2013). The first lived in an England under the reign of Henry VIII that was full of religious turmoil and was celebrated there for his beautiful, endless melodies woven into rich counterpoint. The second, in turn, developed his own musical language based on his spiritual journeys through various religions and philosophies. Tavener's compositions have a mystical character, they tell us about mortality, suffering, redemption and transcendence.
The perfect triptych
Three concerts, each on a Sunday, bring these two timeless figures together. The Tallis Scholars - who also celebrate their fiftieth anniversary - shine with the phenomenal Missa Corona spinea by Taverner. Not only do the sopranos sing higher in no other mass from the English Renaissance repertoire. With this six-voice mass, Cardinal Wolsey would also have incurred the implacable jealousy of Henry VII.
The legendary viola da gamba consort Fretwork, countertenor Iestyn Davies, and oboist Nicholas Daniel build the bridge between Taverner and Tavener. The instrumental performance of Taverner's Missa Gloria tibi trinitas flows seamlessly into two hushed, musical prayers by Tavener.
Violinist Sylvia Huang and cellist Matthew Barley complete the circle. Together with Young Belgian Strings, they perform, among other works, The protecting veil, Tavener's best-known instrumental composition and a challenge for Barley, who as a cellist gets no moment of rest. Huang is heard as a soloist in two other compositions by Tavener, Fragment for the Virgin and Tears of the angels. Who better than Huang to bring Tavener's quest for the 'eternal feminine' to life on her violin?
With TAVE(R)NERinPRIMETIME, AMUZ brings together the best work of the two English composers. Expect concerts that are not only musical discoveries but equally spiritual experiences.
Practical information
TAVE(R)NERinPRIMETIME takes place on Sunday 11, Sunday 18 and Sunday 25 February at AMUZ. Tickets and info: https://amuz.be/tavernerinprimetime/
AMUZ gives away one duo ticket for each concert of TAVE(R)NERinPRIMETIME. To enter, send an email to tickets@amuz.be with your favourite concert of TAVE(R)NERinPRIMETIME and the answer to the question: "Which ensemble closes the concert season 23|24 at AMUZ?"