IREC Berlin
Musical Vespers in Autumn
Welcome to Musical Vespers in Autumn, an afternoon concert of sacred choral music and instrumental works shaped by themes of praise, mercy, trust, remembrance, and hope.
The programme brings together music from the Baroque period to the present day, creating a reflective journey through different musical traditions. Choral and instrumental works are interwoven throughout the concert, allowing moments of grandeur, intimacy, and stillness to unfold.
Together, these works form a musical vespers for the autumn season: an invitation to pause, listen, and encounter beauty through music.
Program
Voices of Consolation
John Tavener's Song for Athene and Heinrich Schütz's Selig sind die Toten offer two deeply moving reflections on remembrance and eternal peace. Though separated by centuries, both works speak with quiet intensity and a profound sense of comfort.
Praise and Divine Glory
In Schütz's Die Himmel erzählen die Ehre Gottes, the choir celebrates the majesty of creation through vivid and expressive polyphony. The work brings brightness and energy to the programme, contrasting with its more contemplative moments.
Mercy and Prayer
Jan Dismas Zelenka's Miserere forms one of the central works of the concert. Its dramatic harmonies and heartfelt plea for mercy reveal the richness and emotional depth of the Baroque sacred tradition.
Trust in Song
Paul Gerhardt's Befiehl du deine Wege brings the programme toward a spirit of confidence and surrender. The hymn speaks of placing one's path, worries, and hopes into God's care.
Instrumental Reflections
Works by Domenico Scarlatti, Johann Nepomuk Hummel, and Frédéric Chopin offer contrasting musical colours, from Baroque clarity and Classical elegance to Romantic lyricism. These instrumental moments create space for reflection and complement the sacred choral repertoire.
Performers
Conductor Billy Kristanto
IREC Europe Choir
Piano Calvin Abdiel
Violin Hannah Jonina Ivy, Tamariska Kristianto
Account holder
IREC Berlin e.V.
Bank name
Deutsche Bank AG
IBAN
DE92 1007 0024 0025 7576 00
BIC
DEUTDEDBBER
Purpose (optional)
Musical Vespers in Autumn
Direction to venue
Kaiser-Friedrich-Gedächtniskirche
Händelallee 20, 10557 Berlin (Visit GoogleMaps)
Important to know
- Please come before the concert begins
- Dress appropriately
- Silence your phone before the concert
- Remain seated and avoid walking around during the concert
- Eating and drinking are not permitted inside the venue
- Room for babies and young children is provided