EVENING CHURCH - Dieterich Buxtehude: The Last Judgment

Considering the total loss of music from Buxtehude's Evening Music, “The Last Judgment” is a welcome example of the musically unknown genre of Buxtehude's oratorio.

Even if the example has no parallels, it can certainly be placed in the close circle of the great composer and largely corresponds to the type represented by his lost Evening Music. That is why it is important to Goldmund Vokalensemble to perform this work again.

In terms of content, the oratorio consists of three parts (Actus). In the first, the three allegorical figures of avarice, frivolity and pride (arrogance) are introduced. The divine voice tries to put these vices on the right path with warnings.

In Actus II the characters have become nameless, but the difference between the godless and the God-loving is more than clear: one seeks the joy of life, the other seeks reflection. The third act shows people awaiting the final judgment (last judgment), the God-fearing in joyful hope for eternity, the sinner in deep despair.

+ Consort of historically informed performance practice and electronic sounds

+ Crossover project with performative elements

The text consists of Bible fragments, psalm texts and chorales and is supplemented with newly written poetry. Even without a baroque religious background, many parallels can be drawn to a life between discipline and relaxed living (dolce vita). Thanks to the operatic character of the piece and the direct and sometimes humorous texts, the topic can be easily related to the present. The right behavior in relation to climate and social change is immediately apparent.

Admission free, donations requested