13th April 2019. Brangwyn Hall, Swansea.
Swansea Philharmonic Choir present their first concert of 2019 with Haydn’s fantastic Oratorio of 1797, The Creation. Joined by the British Sinfonietta and soloists Ellen Williams, Magnus Walker and Meilir Jones. Tickets available from 01792 299433.
The Creation represents one of the Haydn’s last great works following his return to Vienna after his trips to England, and the composition of his final symphonies.
The text of the Creation is based on three sources; the Biblical books of Genesis, and Psalms, as well as John Milton’s Paradise Lost. The libretto was written by Gottfried van Swieten.
The work is structured in three parts and scored for soprano, tenor and bass soloists, chorus and orchestra. In parts I and II, depicting the creation, the soloists represent the archangels Raphael (bass), Uriel (tenor) and Gabriel (soprano). In part III, the bass and soprano represent Adam and Eve.
The first public performance was held in Vienna at the old Burgtheater on 19 March 1799. The oratorio was published with the text in German and English in 1800.
