Adam's Passion

Adam's Passion

Music:

Arvo Pärt

Stage direction, set design and lighting concept:

Robert Wilson

Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir

Tallinn Chamber Orchestra

Music director and conductor: Tonu Kaliuste

Sequentia
for string orchestra and percussion (2014)
Dedicated to Robert Wilson
- World Premiere May 12, 2015

Adam’s Lament
for mixed choir and string orchestra (2010)
Dedicated to Archimandrite Sophrony

Tabula rasa
for 2 violins, string orchestra and prepared piano (1977)
Dedicated to Eri Klas, Gidon Kremer and Tatyana Grindenko

Miserere
for soli, mixed choir, ensemble and organ (1989/1992)
Dedicated to Paul Hillier and Hilliard Ensemble

Program is 90 min in length

Both have been giants in the international scenery of music and arts for decades: Arvo Pärt (born 1935), one of the most performed contemporary composers of our time, and Robert Wilson (born 1941), one of the most sought-after stage directors worldwide.

Pärt, Estonian, whose compositions stand out due to their clear harmonies and unmistakable beauty, and Wilson, Texan, a Master of Lighting, whose personal experiences function as the motivation and inspiration for his staging.

Pärt and Wilson collaborate for a joint project for the first time ever, which, due to their contrary biographies and approaches, promised to be one of the most exciting staging events of the year. A spectacular and unusual location played a crucial role - The production took place in a former Soviet submarine factory, the “Noblessner Foundry” located in Tallinn. Robert Wilson integrates scenery with its natural, historical setting in the concept. A large stage and “catwalk” of sorts is constructed in the hall. For the production, Arvo Pärt selects some of his most powerful works: “Adam’s Lament,” “Misere” and “Tabula Rasa”. In addition to this, Arvo Pärt composed a new piece, “Sequentia,” which will be given its world premiere during the stage production of “Adam’s Passion.”
The premiere took place on May 12th, 2015 in Tallinn Orchestra, choir and soloists are conducted by Grammy award winner Tõnu Kaljuste, who has already premiered a number of Arvo Pärt’s pieces. Over 100 performers participated in this project - actors as well.
Accentus Music is the producer of this extraordinary staging in cooperation with ETV and Eesti Kontsert.