Forty-five years ago a successful ensemble was born which continues to enrapture audiences today with a succession of memorable productions. In 1970, Philippe Herreweghe founded one of the world's finest mixed choirs, putting into practice the historically informed performance method to a high standard in the field of Baroque vocal music. Over the years Collegium Vocale Gent has extended its repertoire, but whichever period it tackles, it always follows authentic performance practice in the given style. The key is naturally Herreweghe: "Music changes our relationship with time. The subject of my research is not even music, but beauty,” he revealed in one interview. This approach permeates his more than 80 recordings, including Mendelssohn's exciting oratorio St. Paul (Paulus), which the German composer wrote at the age of just 27.

A lecture by János Mácsai under the title Prelude will precede the concert from 6.30 pm, giving ticket holders the opportunity to better familiarise themselves with the work.

Presented by: Palace of Arts