VIENNA – The Heart of Music

Showtimes

On 24 July, the vaulted interior of St Paul’s Church will host the premiere of Vienna - The Heart of Music, a programme of classical works performed by a string quintet. For several centuries, Vienna stood at the centre of European musical life. It was here that Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven, Brahms and Strauss created works that continue to shape our understanding of the classical tradition. The programme explores Viennese music in all its variety - from formal precision to the intimacy of the salon miniature, and from concert virtuosity to the irresistible energy of the dance. Each composer approached this tradition in a distinct way; together, their works trace the development of Vienna’s musical culture across two centuries. The string quintet is one of the established forms of chamber ensemble, and one for which Mozart had a particular affinity. In this performance, the fifth instrument is the double bass, adding an unusual depth and resonance to the ensemble’s sound. The church’s soaring vaults, lighting and visual projections enhance the character of the music and create an atmosphere that cannot be replicated in a conventional concert hall. Musicians are located in the stalls, near the altar Concert duration: approx. 1 hour 20 minutes

Aleksejs Bahirs (vijole) Margarita Ogibalova (vijole) Elīna Bahira (alts) Irina Viļegžaņina (čells) Viktors Stankevičs (kontrabass)