Karl Jenkins: Stabat Mater (arr. John Gibbons)

Dekanatschor Donnersberg
Nordwestpfälzische Kantorei
Members of Gesangvereinskapelle Rockenhausen
Members of Kammerphilharmonie Saar
Conductor: Diethelm Schlegel

The "Stabat Mater" is a sequence and hymn rooted in Catholic liturgy, traditionally associated with the feast of "Our Lady of Sorrows", celebrated each year on 15 September. Countless notable composers across the centuries have set this text to music.
Karl Jenkins, born in Wales and known worldwide for his work "Adiemus", stands among them as a contemporary voice.

What sets this modern work apart is its blending of ethnic sounds from diverse cultural traditions with Jenkins's distinctive melodic and rhythmic language. Premiered in 2008, it draws not only on the Latin "Stabat Mater" but also on modern and ancient poetry in Hebrew, Greek, Arabic, Aramaic, and English.

In this reduced version arranged by John Gibbons, the choir and classical orchestra are joined by ethnic instruments - duduk, darbuka, and riqq. The internationally acclaimed Lebanese soloist Fadia Tomb El-Hage also takes part. The concert opens with short traditional melodies performed as solos, offering a window into Armenian and Byzantine soundscapes.