Classical concerts featuring

Simon Halsey

NDR Vokalensemble / Simon Halsey

British conductor Simon Halsey leads »SINGING!« 2025 and, together with the NDR Vokalensemble, the award-winning choral conductor wants to breathe new life into the participatory concert after the coronavirus years. Register now to take part!

Listen & Sing - Einblicke in Edward Elgars The Dream of Gerontius

"The Dream of Gerontius" by Edward Elgar is one of the most popular oratorios in England. The libretto comes from the pen of the English cardinal John Henry Newman, who describes the finiteness of human existence as a journey of the soul into the hereafter. A sacred Everyman, so to speak, and an unusual story for an oratorio full of moving choral moments. Why Edward Elgar himself gave this composition the highest priority in his work to date and why it is worth putting "The Dream of Gerontius" on the program more often here: You will find out both practically and theoretically in this event. Part 1 Host Christoph Vratz (WDR 3, Deutschlandfunk) talks to Cristian Măcelaru (conductor), Simon Halsey (choir director) and Markus Roentgen (theologian and musicologist) about Edward Elgar's "The Dream of Gerontius" Part 2 Singing with Simon Halsey - The renowned British choir director and Elgar expert sings excerpts from the oratorio with interested choral singers at the piano/organ: George Warren We would be delighted if you attended both parts of the event, but you can also only attend the first or second part (from 8 p.m.), just as you like.

Himmel & Hölle – The Dream of Gerontius

While rarely performed in Germany, Edward Elgar's oratorio "The Dream of Gerontius" follows Handel's "Messiah" and Mendelssohn's "Elijah" in popularity in England. This masterpiece reveals the true side of the English romanticist, known mainly for the "Pomp and Circumstance" marches. The monumental work follows a soul's journey to heaven after death, guided by a guardian angel, until it beholds God's glory.

Guest performance