Join the Vivaldi Chamber Choir, Ensemble Harmonia, and talented soloists, led by Edette Gagné, for a performance of Joseph Haydn’s The Seven Last Words of Our Saviour on the Cross.
Originally composed for an orchestral performance during a Good Friday service in Cádiz, Spain in 1786, Haydn later adapted it in 1787 for string quartet, and in 1796, as an oratorio with soloists, choir, and orchestra.
The composition is structured around seven slow movements, each corresponding to one of Christ’s last statements, framed by an introduction and a concluding movement. Haydn uses calm tempi, expressive melodies, and subtle changes in harmony to encourage meditation rather than dramatic action.
The oratorio culminates in the Terremoto (Earthquake), a sudden and explosive finale that shatters the preceding stillness with all possible force. Unlike the meditative movements that come before, this final section utilises the full power of the choir and orchestra to depict the cosmic convulsion following the crucifixion. Listeners can expect an evening of profound reflection, witnessing a work that Haydn himself considered one of his greatest masterpieces.
Admission by donation, but for planning purposes please register to indicate your intention to attend.
The Vancouver Chamber Choir is a choral ensemble known for its performances of classical and contemporary vocal music, including works by composers such as Vivaldi.
Founded in 1987, the choir has built a reputation for its musical excellence, dynamic performances, and commitment artistic excellence.
Under the leadership of artistic director Edette Gagné, the Vivaldi Chamber Choir brings together talented singers to perform works from the Baroque, Classical, and early Romantic periods, as well as newly commissioned pieces.
The ensemble is recognised for its performances of musical styles and excellence in languages from worlds old and new and from all periods
Harmonia is a Vancouver-based string ensemble that originated in 2004 when founder Tony Lee invited a group of musician friends to play string orchestral music in his living room. Initially known as I Musici Sushi, the ensemble performed informal concerts and raised funds for charity through donation-based admissions.
In late December 2018, the group officially rebranded as Harmonia and continues to perform approximately four concerts annually, donating proceeds to local charities. The ensemble is composed of about 16–20 advanced musicians from diverse professional backgrounds, including professionals, teachers, businessmen, and retirees, all united by their passion for music.
Harmonia’s focus is on performing lesser-known string works and chamber music that are rarely featured in mainstream concert halls. The group is led by resident conductor Nicholas Urquhart and concertmaster Dominic Woo. Harmonia has performed at various events, including the LunarFest Vancouver concerts, where it has collaborated with groups such as the West Vancouver Youth Band, the Vivaldi Chamber Choir, and the Vancouver Zion Mission Choir.
In 2024, Harmonia performed at the Orpheum Theatre as part of LunarFest Vancouver alongside Jade Music Fest, Van Lefan, and Daniel Lew. The ensemble also participated in a 2023 performance of Joseph Haydn’s The Seven Last Words of Christ with the Vivaldi Chamber Choir.
The group has a strong commitment to community engagement and cultural collaboration, often featuring music from diverse traditions, including works by Taiwanese composer Che-Yi Lee and arrangements of traditional songs.