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Opening Concert: The Veil of The Temple
  • Edinburgh International Festival

BEANBAG CONCERT SERIES

Experience an unforgettable day-to-night concert, inviting introspection and the search for deeper truths.

Eight hours. 250 singers. One monumental choral work.

The Usher Hall transforms into a sanctuary for John Tavener's magnum opus, The Veil of the Temple. This is only the second time it has ever been performed in the UK.

Written just over 20 years ago, The Veil of the Temple isnt just for religious listeners " Tavener composed it to unlock everyones spiritual side. Sung in five different languages and drawing on many of the major world religions, think of The Veil of the Temple as one colossal universal prayer. Fusing Eastern and Western traditions, Taveners haunting, meditative music and resonant chants create a sense of mystery and reverence.

In a rare moment of vocal communion, the Monteverdi Choir joins the Edinburgh Festival Chorus and National Youth Choir of Scotland with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Conducted by Sofi Jeannin, one of the most respected choral specialists today, discover Taveners supreme achievement of [his] life as it was originally intended: in all its glory.

Comprising eight cycles with short breaks in between, how you choose to experience this is deeply personal: feel free to come and go as you need. Light bites and refreshments will be available throughout. Plus, join us for a celebratory fizz at the finale!

Supported by James and Morag Anderson

Royal Scottish National Orchestra

Sofi Jeannin Conductor

Edinburgh Festival Chorus

James Grossmith Chorus Director

Monteverdi Choir

Jonathan Sells Choir Director

National Youth Choir of Scotland

NYCOS Chamber Choir

Christopher Bell Chorus Director

Sophia Burgos Soprano

Tavener The Veil of the Temple

Sung in English, Aramaic, Church Slavonic, Greek & Sanskrit with English surtitles

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