It was a stunning picture and an awe-inspiring sound experience: Nearly 300 musicians and singers took the stage together at the Bremen Glocke for a performance of Swan Lake, one of the world’s most renowned ballets.
The world-famous story of Swan Lake follows the journey of Odette, a princess transformed into a swan by magician Rotbart, and Prince Siegfried, who is set on releasing her through the power of true love. The first performance of Swan Lake, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s first ballet, took place in Moscow in 1877. Today, this timeless masterpiece is a staple of dance and classical music repertoires worldwide. The iconic leitmotif that accompanies the swans’ majestic entrances has undoubtedly contributed to its enduring legacy.

The large mixed orchestra, conducted alternately by the University of Bremen music director Mariano Chiacchiarini and the Parisian orchestra director Nicolás Agulló, masterfully intoned the graceful melancholy. In doing so, it beautifully exemplified the power of international cooperation and the unifying power of music. A point also emphasized by Jutta Günther, President of the University of Bremen, in her welcoming address.

The spectacular “Messa di Gloria” from 1880 showcased the remarkable talent of Giacomo Puccini, who from a very young age created a work that blurs the boundaries between sacred music and dramatic expressiveness. The work combines the liturgical tradition of the Catholic mass with the sense of drama and emotion that would become a hallmark of Puccini's later works. The harmonious interplay between the choir and orchestra highlighted the tonal expressiveness of this sacred composition, especially enhanced by the outstanding soloists Patricio Amaya (tenor) and Aris Argiris (baritone).

The audience at the sold-out Glocke was thrilled. The next great performance by the University of Bremen Choir and Orchestra, which will feature Verdi’s Requiem, is already announced for July 6.