Concert overview

Thursday, May 14, 2026 | Stefaniensaal

5 pm Opening Concert | Stefaniensaal

8 pm Gala Concert PASSION & RESURRECTION | Stefaniensaal

The gala concert “Passion & Resurrection” is dedicated to the work of one of the most important choral composers of our time: Ēriks Ešenvalds, Artist in Residence of the festival and a globally acclaimed sound magician whose music moves between the poetry of the Northern Lights and profound spiritual intensity. Together with Stephen Layton, one of the leading choral conductors of our generation, he personally takes the podium to shape this exceptional evening.

On stage, Vocalforum Graz (conducted Franz M. Herzog), the renowned Slovenian Philharmonic Choir (conducted by Sebastjan Vrhovnik), soprano Mojca Bitenc Križaj, and the Camerata KONSordino of the Johann-Joseph-Fux Conservatory come together.

The first part of the concert is dedicated entirely to the famous “Northern Lights” Suite, including works such as Stars, Northern Lights, Rivers of Light, and Only in Sleep. Ešenvalds himself introduces his music, performs as a singer, and presents his signature sound: the poetically shimmering water-tuned glasses.

After the intermission, the oratorio “Passion and Resurrection” will be performed – a key work in his oeuvre and one of the compositions that established his international breakthrough. This approximately 30-minute work for soprano, strings, and choir combines archaic power, deeply felt spirituality, and cinematic soundscapes. (Austrian premiere – subject to confirmation.)

With his unique musical language, Ēriks Ešenvalds ranks among the most frequently performed composers of our time. His music is performed worldwide, has received multiple awards, and is interpreted by ensembles such as the Rundfunkchor Berlin, Polyphony, the Britten Sinfonia, and the Choir of the West.
Stephen Layton – recipient of the Grammy, Echo, and Gramophone Awards – is considered one of the most influential conductors in today’s international choral scene.

An evening that unites Nordic atmosphere, spiritual depth, and the creative energy of two exceptional artists, transforming the Stefaniensaal into a luminous landscape of sound.