OVERVIEW

Programme:
Franz Liszt: Christus, S.3
Three-part oratorio from 1866

Performers:
Veronika Rovná – soprano
Lucie Hilscherová – mezzo-soprano
Martin Šrejma – tenor
Roman Hoza – baritone / Christus
Martin Gurbaľ – bass

Including NDM opera chorus and opera orchestra—chorus master Jurij Galatenko, conductor Marek Šedivý

Franz Liszt (1811–1886), one of the most visionary composers of the 19th century, dedicated his later creative period to spiritual themes and the search for transcendence through music. His monumental oratorio Christus, composed between 1862 and 1866, is his most extensive and ambitious sacred work and a milestone of his late output.

The composition traces key moments in the life of Christ – from birth through suffering to the glory of resurrection – in three thematically connected parts. Gregorian chant, polyphony, and Romantic orchestral colour blend seamlessly. Liszt combines large orchestra, choir, and soloists, reflecting his desire to unite ancient liturgical tradition with modern musical language. The oratorio’s three sections (Christmas Oratorio • After Epiphany • Passion and Resurrection) draw from chant-based themes enriched by expressive harmonies and sensitive orchestration. A spiritual fresco—both intimate and monumental—is the result that places music in service of faith and artistic depth.

Christus was first performed in 1873 in Weimar and, despite its importance, remains one of Liszt’s less frequently performed works.

Our performance in the Cathedral of the Divine Saviour offers not only a unique musical experience, but also a spatial dialogue between Liszt’s music and sacred architecture.

Concert performance on 18 September 2025 in the Cathedral of the Divine Saviour as part of the 22nd edition of St. Wenceslas Music Festival.