First performed in 1799, Haydn’s oratorio The Creation spread with astonishing speed throughout Europe. It united, if only for the duration of its performances, a continent torn asunder by war. Structured in three parts devoted respectively to the elements, to animals and humans, and to heaven on earth, The Creation alternates biblical passages with musical commentary in a vastly expressive spiritual fresco.
Haydn, The Creation, Hob.XXI:2 (109 min.)
