Traditionally, November Music 2020 opens with Bosch Requiem in which the ideas of Hieronymus Bosch and All Souls’Day form the basis of a new composition performed in a surprising total evening.
Life itself is puzzling enough, but the mystery of death raises many more questions. When death knocks on the door, the dying process is surrounded by all kinds of mystical rituals. From the Tibetan Book of the Dead to the Catholic sacrament of the sick. The Korean Catholic Church has its own tradition: YeonDo. Before someone is buried, an enthusiastic group prayer takes place for the dead. The Korean-Dutch composer Seung-Won Oh is fascinated by this unique death ritual that connects Korean funeral traditions with the Catholic faith in Korea. For example, during the YeonDo ritual, the dead remains in purgatory until the sins are forgiven and heaven can begin. The spirit is prepared for its journey to a new world, including a ceremonial meal. In her requiem YeonDo, Seung-Won Oh gives a new, contemporary interpretation to this ancient tradition.
The beautiful sacred space of the Jheronimus Bosch Art Center forms the ideal backdrop for this new Bosch Requiem. The music of Seung-Won Oh has a great physical appearance where musical action and sound ritual merge. The New European Ensemble, the singers of Cappella Pratensis and alto Helena Rasker, play a shining leading role in her funeral mass, who unleash a thrilling and timeless ritual. The direction is once again in the hands of Matzer Theater Productions. Just like last year, conductor is Manoj Kamps.
PROGRAM
Seung-Won Oh – YeonDo *
* Composition assignment November Music
Cappella Pratensis & New European Ensemble conducted by Manoj Kamps
Helena Rasker – vocals
CANCELLED due to Covid-19
