The Pioneer’s Passion

The depth of sorrow and the strength of hope meet in Stabat Mater, first performed in 1890 in the presence of the royal family and dedicated to Crown Prince Gustaf. In nine movements, the Passion drama is voiced from Mary’s perspective – each movement with its own emotional character. Netzel combines romantic colour with refined choral texture. Among both critics and audiences, the work was met with great admiration, and the composer became a pioneer in Swedish musical life, deeply committed to advancing the role of women in culture and the development of church music.

Winter’s desolation and resilience stand at the centre of Un soir de neige, where Paul Éluard’s texts intertwine with Francis Poulenc’s evocative sound world. Snow and cold mirror the fear and flight of people in an occupied Paris, yet the choral writing also reveals a quiet strength – hope that endures even when all around is still and menacing.

From the same French sacred source, Litanies à la Vierge Noire draws its tone. The work was written during a pilgrimage to Rocamadour, where Poulenc’s faith deepened. Modal melodies and the character of an intimate, folk-like prayer course throughout the piece – expressing personal doubt, loss, and humble trust – while the choir’s rich harmonies interact with a Gregorian-inspired organ part.

Roger-Ducasse is celebrated for his subtlety and craftsmanship. The programme concludes with his Crux fidelis from the collection Trois motets (1912).

Stockholms domkyrkokör
Henriikka Gröndahl soprano
Maria Forsström altp
Joel Annmo tenor
Markus Schwartz bass
Mattias Wager organ
Johan Hammarström conductor

Program
Laura Netzel Stabat mater
Francis Poulenc Un soir de Neige
Francis Poulenc Litanies à la Vierge Noire
Jean Roger-Ducasse Crux fidelis ur Trois motets

Age limit: 6 years and older

Ticket prices: 110-305 SEK, discounts available for seniors, children/youth/students

Please note that large bags, backpacks, suitcases, and strollers are not allowed in the church!