BEANBAG CONCERT SERIES
Experience an unforgettable day-to-night concert, inviting introspection and the search for deeper truths.
Eight hours. 250 singers. One monumental choral work.
The Usher Hall transforms into a sanctuary for John Tavener's magnum opus, The Veil of the Temple. This is only the second time it has ever been performed in the UK.
Written just over 20 years ago, The Veil of the Temple isn’t just for religious listeners – Tavener composed it to unlock everyone’s spiritual side. Sung in five different languages and drawing on many of the major world religions, think of The Veil of the Temple as one colossal universal prayer. Fusing Eastern and Western traditions, Tavener’s haunting, meditative music and resonant chants create a sense of mystery and reverence.
In a rare moment of vocal communion, the Monteverdi Choir joins the Edinburgh Festival Chorus and National Youth Choir of Scotland with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Conducted by Sofi Jeannin, one of the most respected choral specialists today, discover Tavener’s ‘supreme achievement of [his] life’ as it was originally intended: in all its glory.
Settle In
Comprising eight cycles with three short breaks, how you choose to experience this durational performance is deeply personal: feel free to come and go as you need, we’ll give you a wristband to make this easier.
Music will be relayed to the front-of-house spaces where you can enjoy refreshments in an atmosphere which keeps you connected to the performance.
Complementary tea, coffee and biscuits will be available throughout the performance in the bar areas on each level. If you’ve pre-ordered a grazing box you’ll be able to collect it from the ground floor opposite the Café Bar which will be open throughout to buy drinks and snacks. You are welcome to bring your own refreshments to enjoy in the front-of-house spaces.
If you wish to mark the end of this unforgettable experience by sharing your reflections with other audience members and performers, please assemble in the stalls shortly after the concert ends.
Listen on Soundcloud or Spotify.
Supported by James and Morag Anderson
Sung in English, Aramaic, Church Slavonic, Greek & Sanskrit with English surtitles.
A keepsake freesheet is available at the venue for this performance.