Franciscan Charity Evening

This twelve-movement symphony draws from the traditional musical material of the twelve different Christian churches living side by side in Jerusalem, which are sung in the Eucharistic liturgy. The result is a composition that sparks a dialogue with various cultures and periods through, among others, ancient Armenian, Byzantine, Syrian-Aramaic, Ethiopian, Coptic and Chaldean music traditions. In order to preserve the liturgical authenticity of the original works, the carefully preserved melodies in the Eastern churches at the beginning of the movements are performed a capella by twelve singers representing each religion, followed by the development of the theme as interpreted by the orchestra and choir. The interplay of different ecclesiastical traditions lends the symphony not only a very unique musical tonality but also a deep spirituality.