Rachmaninov's Vespers is a Russian masterpiece, draped in rich, warm harmonies. Written in the winter of 1915, during the privations of World War I, and just two years before the Bolshevik Revolution, the Vespers is an extended collection of fifteen a cappella hymns based on traditional Slavic chants. It is sung in the late 17th century language of Russian orthodox liturgy, called Church Slavonic. The first performance in 1915 was a benefit for war relief, given by the Moscow Synodal Choir.
Rachmaninov's Vespers is unquestionably one of the composer's finest achievements, a work of extraordinary beauty and drama that many consider to be the crowning glory of Russian choral music. Rachmaninoff was at the height of his creative powers when he made this faithful artistic response to a long-standing tradition of worship. In it, he made a sincere attempt at writing music in a style both acceptable for church use and at the same time true to his own creative instincts.
The Vespers (or as it is known in Russian, the All-Night Vigil) is a ritual celebrating the Resurrection of Christ that was introduced into Russia from Byzantium in the 14th century. The ritual joins together the liturgies of three services - Vespers, Matins, and First Hour (or Prime) - and is observed by Russian Orthodox Christians every Saturday and on the eve of every important feast. (It is more often abbreviated to two or three hours, despite its name!)
Rachmaninov's Vespers will be conducted by the Seattle Choral Company's conductor and artistic director, Freddie Coleman.
At all performances, concert attendees are urged to arrive one hour before the start of the program. Docents from the Seattle Choral Company will be on hand to provide information and exhibits about the concert program.
ADVANCE PURCHASE prices (seating is non-reserved): $25 General, $20 Senior 65+, and $10 Youth (up to 25) All tickets $2 additional at the door. Special Group Rates are available for advance sales to groups of 8 or more. Call 206-363-1100 for more information.
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