Merseburg Cathedral Music II

Merseburg Cathedral Music regularly organises concerts in Merseburg Cathedral. The varied programme ranges from organ concerts on the Ladegast organs to symphonies and chamber concerts in the cloister.

Saturday, 24 May 2025 | 5 pm
George Frideric Handel: Organ concertos op. 4
Merseburg court music
Director: Michael Schönheit

Tickets are available in advance at the Tourist-Information Merseburg or under www.eventim.de.

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A baroque sound experience in Merseburg Cathedral

Immerse yourself in the fascinating sound world of the Baroque! The Merseburg Court Music Orchestra presents the famous organ concertos by George Frideric Handel under the direction of cathedral organist Michael Schönheit.

These masterpieces unfold their full tonal splendour in the majestic atmosphere of Merseburg Cathedral. Experience how the organ as a royal instrument is in dialogue with the orchestra and be enchanted by virtuoso passages, catchy melodies and the lively dynamics of these extraordinary compositions.

The concert is part of the highly esteemed "Merseburg Cathedral Music" concert series, which regularly presents outstanding musical performances in the unique ambience of the imperial cathedral.

Handel's organ concertos - musical jewels of the Baroque era

George Frideric Handel (1685-1759) composed a total of twelve organ concertos, which are among the highlights of his extensive oeuvre. In these works, he masterfully combines the sonority of the orchestra with the virtuosity of the organ as a solo instrument.

The organ concertos were composed during Handel's time in London in the 1730s and 1740s. The composer himself frequently appeared as a soloist and delighted his audiences with his technical brilliance and musical expressiveness. These works show Handel's deep knowledge of the instrument and his flair for effective contrasts between soloist and orchestra.

Program

The concert programme includes a selection of Handel's most famous organ concertos, including:

• Organ concerto in F major, HWV 292
• Organ concerto in G minor, HWV 289
• Organ concerto in C major, HWV 294