Ninety years ago (b. 1935) the Estonian composer Arvo Pärt was born. Although he experimented with avant-garde music in his early years, particularly as a rebellious means against the Soviet regime that prevailed there, he sought and found his own style in the nineteen seventies, which we might call mystical or religious minimalism. He was inspired by Gregorian chant, Franco-Flemish polyphony from the 15th and 16th centuries and Byzantine church music, having converted to Russian Orthodox faith. Thus he developed his own style in which he limits himself to essentials. In doing so, he succeeds in reaching through with a language that transcends time, boundaries and emotions. His clear and simple manner of writing brings transcendence, purity and hushed happiness into every soul that wishes to escape the hectic and warlike reality.
Polyfoon introduces you to some gems from this authentic and still living composer, a rightful star in the classical music firmament. A cappella and with organ accompaniment by Katrien Mannaert. In the concert we also pay tribute to the equally celebrated, but 500 years earlier, Italian pioneer of the Renaissance, Giovanni Pierluigi Palestrina (1525 – 1594). From him we perform, among others, several movements from his famous six-voice Missa Papae Marcelli. A not-to-be-missed concert with rarely performed heavenly music from past and present!
- On Saturday 17 May 2025 - 20:00, in Sint-Egidiuskerk (Sint-Gillis-Buiten), Frans Van Schoorstraat 17, Sint-Gillis-Dendermonde.
- On Sunday 18 May 2025 - 16:00, in Sint-Willibrorduskerk, Kerkstraat 89, Antwerpen.
Tickets are available for €22.00 (€17.00 for under 26) via this link.