Closing Concert: Karina Canellakis Conducts Mendelssohn’s *Elias*

A biblical spectacle to close out the AVROTROS Friday Concert season. The Radio Philharmonic Orchestra and the Groot Omroepkoor devote themselves wholeheartedly to the two-hour oratorio*Elias*. Mendelssohn composed this musical drama about the life of the prophet Elijah, following the example of the Passions by Bach and Handel. Mendelssohn’s love for Bach’s music resonates in every intense note.

Mendelssohn’s Passion
Mendelssohn’s*Elias*is an oratorio of biblical proportions in the classical Passion tradition. Mendelssohn closely follows the fortunes of the Old Testament prophet. Elijah defends the faith in the one true God with tooth and nail. It all unfolds in solo pieces, choral sections, and instrumental interludes: calamity, heavenly fires, and the appearance of the Messiah. The German composer poured his last reserves of energy into it. He died a year after completingElijah.

: A Realistic Drama Performances of Mendelssohn’s*Elias*are rare. It is a full-length musical drama that demands the total commitment of everyone involved. With*Elias*, Mendelssohn sought to create a realistic drama, with characters who touch the heart and soul. Conductor Karina Canellakis and the Radio Philharmonic Orchestra know exactly what they’re up against. They’re backed by the Groot Omroepkoor and top soloists such as contralto Wiebke Lehmkuhl and bass-baritone Samuel Hasselhorn.