Programme
Carus Verlag: Masses of Beethoven
Ludwig van Beethoven was without doubt one of the most influential composers in the history of music. His vocal works set standards: the late Missa Solemnis is one of the most impressive choral works of its time; but his earlier Mass in C also opens up new worlds of expression for the liturgical text, and set the benchmark for the further development in the composition of the mass. Looking further ahead to the great Beethoven-Jubilee of 2020, Jan Schumacher will provide the participants invaluable tips for performing and interpreting these great works. As well as this he will introduce the “Beethoven choral collection”. This contains both well-known pieces and less seldom heard ones (such as from his incidental music), as well as arrangements of Beethoven’s works by composers of his and our time. Many of these works will be interesting for any amateur choir, and some will be an addition to the repertoire of ambitious chamber choirs.
Jan Schumacher (b.1980) is Music Director of Frankfurt Goethe-University as well as conductor of Camerata Musica Limburg and the Choir of TU Darmstadt. Until 2016 he was professor for conducting at the College of Church Music in Rottenburg. Jan was chorister in Limburg cathedral and studied music education, German language and choral conducting. With his ensembles, he builds extensive repertoires from Gregorian chants to world premieres, from symphonic orchestra to Big Band, and vocal or electronic improvisation. Jan regularly teaches courses for choirs, orchestras and conductors worldwide, has served as jury member for many prestigious competitions and is co-editor of many choir books.