Details

Vespers (All-Night Vigil) is one of the most beautifully moving unaccompanied choral works of the twentieth century. Rachmaninov combines melodies of ancient Russian canticles with his own inventions to create a superb example of sacred music in the best tradition of the Russian Orthodox church. Composed in 1915 amidst the turmoil of WW1, the contrast of its atmosphere of calm reflection made it all the more powerful at the time. That immediate popularity on its first performance has never diminished and now one of Russia's best renowned choral ensembles bring it to life at Llandaff Cathedral. Its skilful mastery of choral texture, its understanding of the nature of church singing, and the depth of its immersion into ancient Russian musical traditions make Rachmaninov's Vespers one of the greatest masterpieces of Russian religious music. Running time: approx 1hr 15mins (no interval)

Creatives/Company

Company: Mariinsky Chorus
Director: Andrey Petrenko