Part of the EIF’s ‘Beanbag Concert Series’, we were immersed in the hypnotic rarity of Gretchaninov’s great work.
Probably unknown to many – this is not mainstream repertoire – it nonetheless amounts to being a tremendous achievement: both in its own right, and for what it represents within the Russian choral tradition.
The work hails from the Orthodox mystical traditions for Holy Week. Like so many Russian composers, Gretchaninov found himself disillusioned with the regime and was subsequently exiled, but hearkened back to the Slavonic language of the Church – while simultaneously creating something that really feels quite modern.
The Choir made an impact from the beginning – the striking and triumphant crescendos were beautifully balanced as the performance progressed, with stillness particularly brought through the soloists’ sections. Sometimes the sense of silence seemed suffocating – but this was intended and authentic to the events remembered and sung.
Without instrumental backing, there was clearly a challenge for the some 120 singers to stay in the same key for the performance’s duration. And yet the music itself, being saturated with depth and beauty, made for the essence of this recital – in allowing the music to wash over us; taking us over, and drawing us in.
To that extent, the beanbag concept was really effective – after an hour of breathtaking music, a number of people commented how more immersive and relaxed the experience had been – the greater adaptability, and offering a different way of listening.
The theme of this year’s EIF is “rituals that unite us” – here was a real pulling-together from a very large choir to perform an understated masterpiece – moving and revelatory – not only in its climaxes but through making contact in the quiet.
The recital finished at 11.00pm.
Edinburgh Festival Chorus, Thursday 15th August, Usher Hall