Stabat mater
Few living composers communicate with the emotional directness of James MacMillan, and the world premiere of his Stabat Mater in 2016 performed by The Sixteen and Britten Sinfonia under the baton of Harry Christophers was greeted with a standing ovation. It is a huge privilege to perform this work in the world famous Sistine Chapel, a space synonymous with some of the greatest sacred art produced.
Few performances are given in the Sistine Chapel and even fewer are given by ensembles not based at the Vatican. This concert is a rare honour, bestowed on the Genesis Foundation, who commissioned Stabat Mater for The Sixteen and Harry Christophers.
Whilst the concert is a private performance, it will be the first ever concert live-streamed from the Vatican via Classic FM’s website (and available for one month following the concert).
Read the reviews from the premiere performances here
"As if possessed across the centuries by the spirit of Michelangelo's colossal, vividly coloured figures, the Sixteen and Britten Sinfonia produced one of those performances during which you can hardly breathe for fear of missing a nuance of expression."
Read More"Listening to Sir James’ setting of the Stabat Mater is painful. It also transfixes, captivating the audience for an hour in a contemplative prayer."
Read More