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 isn’t just for religious listeners – Tavener composed it to unlock everyone’s 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, Tavener’s 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 Tavener’s ‘supreme achievement of [his] life’ as it was originally intended: in all its glory.
Interval Notes
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 to purchase throughout, with celebratory fizz available at the finale!
Programme
Sung in English, Aramaic, Church Slavonic, Greek & Sanskrit with English surtitles.
A keepsake freesheet is available at the venue for this performance.
Full programme
Tavener The Veil of the Temple
Performers
| Royal Scottish National Orchestra | National Youth Choir of Scotland |
| Sofi Jeannin Conductor | NYCOS Chamber Choir |
| Edinburgh Festival Chorus | Christopher Bell Artistic Director |
| James Grossmith Chorus Director | Mark Evans Associate Chorus Director |
| Monteverdi Choir | Sophia Burgos Soprano |
| Jonathan Sells Choir Director | |
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