Place of Refuge: Historia Sancti Magni

The Chelsea Music Festival is thrilled to present the Theotokos Ensemble, a baroque collective known for its “passion, historical curiosity, and imagination,” in a performance consisting of Doug A.A. Balliett on keyboards and leiken, tenor—who together will reanimate a miraculous composition from 10 centuries ago. Originally written by Hermann of Reichenau, or “Herman the Disabled” (1013-1054), an astonishing monk, intellectual and musician from the Middle Ages, these vivid compositions are essentially medieval opera, full of dynamic melodies and built-in drama.

This concert takes as its centerpiece Hermann’s Historia Sancti Magni, or “The Story of Saint Magnus”, a local saint venerated in the region where Hermann lived. Magnus was especially known for his nature miracles, which included expelling snakes, training dragons, and working closely with local bears to find lucrative iron mines. Through hymns, antiphons, responsories, and readings, Hermann tells the story of Magnus’s life, including his miraculous acts and his surprising interactions with animals. Musically, it stands equal among the great spiritual works of western music, and put in the proper context, the drama matches the intensity of the great Romantic operas of the 19th century.

Reception to follow

FEATURING
Theotokos Ensemble
leiken, tenor
Doug A.A. Balliett, keyboards

PROGRAM
Hermann AU REICHENAU Historia Sancti Magni (Matins Office)

Learn More Here: https://www.dougballiett.nyc/hermannus-contractus

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