Music as a light of hope

Berlin after the Thirty Years’ War: a city in transition, a time of upheaval. What do people need in times of war and hardship? What gives them stability? Community. Comfort. Words for their suffering—and music that transcends it.

Johann Georg Ebeling (1637–1676) was cantor at Berlin’s St. Nicholas Church. The poet Paul Gerhardt (1607–1676) served as pastor there. Together, they found a musical language in an era of social upheaval and religious tensions—clear, melodious, close to the human heart.

350 years later. The same church. The same questions. Ebeling’s works performed this evening—including two rediscovered compositions—have also left their mark on the music of other composers: Johann Crüger, Jacob Hintze, and even Johann Sebastian Bach. Embedded in their music, a soundscape emerges that oscillates between lament, comfort, and hope.

Featuring:

• Open Chamber Berlin
• Marien Vokalconsort
• Frieda Jolande Barck | Soprano
• Michael Taylor | Alto
• Georg Poplutz | Tenor
• Tomas Kral | Bass

Support Ticket

In addition to regular and discounted tickets, the ticket shop offers a sponsorship ticket for 100 euros. With this, you support the financing of the anniversary concert. As a thank-you, you will receive a seat in the front rows at the concert as well as a program booklet.