In the year 2024, it seems there is so much movement in the world around us that a rare moment of stillness is a welcome change.
With Arvo Pärt's monumental Kanon Pokajanen, the NEXT Chamber Choir, in collaboration with visual media artist Carolien Teunisse, explores a 21st-century quest for contemplation in a concert for a cappella choir and live video art.

The deeply religious Kanon Pokajanen is a resounding example of the universal appeal of Arvo Pärt for anyone seeking a moment of reflection and introspection. From grand proclamations to intimate pleas, the Kanon touches on what makes us human. Doubt, repentance, and the search for meaning are woven into this imposing work, where resonant bells and delicate chimes alternate in long, slow movements. The tranquil power emanating from these penitential psalms by Pärt, based on 9th-century texts from the Orthodox tradition, offers an almost meditative experience of over an hour and a half that will linger with the audience long after.

Utrecht-based visual media artist Carolien Teunisse expands this musical ritual with live video art, merging choir, sound, and image in projections that respond to the music, taking the audience on a new experience of the Kanon Pokajanen.

These concerts are made possible with the support of the Municipality of Utrecht, the Iona Foundation, the Fentener van Vlissingen Fund, and the Suzanne Hovinga Foundation.
21-06-2024 Stadsklooster Utrecht
22-06-2024 Oosterkerk Haarlem

www.kamerkoornext.nl
Pictures by Tomas van der Weijden