The use of song as an immediate and vibrant expression of contemplative life seems to have developed within the traditions of the Franciscan Order, following the example of Francis of Assisi himself. According to his earliest biographies, “when the sweet melody of the spirit stirred within him, it overflowed in jubilant minstrel-like joy.” This elevated form of contemplation soon transformed into a clear path for preaching. From the beginning, the poverty and humble lifestyle of the first friars led them to evangelize in the spaces where people encountered sin in a raw and everyday way. Seen from this lowly perspective, the tradition of minstrelsy had long been an insightful observer and captivating interpreter of society, often incurring suspicion and condemnation from religious authorities who equated it with prostitution. Thanks to Francis, however, the figure of the minstrel was redeemed and elevated, becoming the model for a new style of communication. This approach was destined to replace the complex rituals of “official” devotion—which were often inaccessible to the faithful—with expressive forms drawn from popular culture, most notably the vernacular language from which a new culture would soon emerge. This program, created especially for this occasion with the scientific guidance of Francesco Zimei, director of the European ERC Advanced research project "Laudare," will present for the first time a musical reconstruction of the Canticle of Brother Sun itself. This reconstruction is based on a new interpretation of its oldest sources and will be accompanied by a selection of recently rediscovered laude, dating from the late 12th to the early 13th century.
The concert is dedicated to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis.
An excerpt from a concert in Rome with the same program
The concert will take place in the Great Renaissance Hall of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. Latecomers will not be admitted.
Entrance is free of charge, but due to the limited number of seats, we kindly ask you to register in advance.
