Bamberger Symphoniker: Dvořák & Suk

Antonín Dvořák’s joyous Te Deum contrasts with Josef Suk’s haunting Asrael Symphony.

For their final International Festival concert, Jakub Hrůša and the Bamberger Symphoniker pair a late masterpiece by Antonín Dvořák with his son-in-law Josef Suk’s most ambitious orchestral work. They are joined by sought-after soprano Kateřina Kněžíková and the ‘formidable’ (Opera Wire) baritone Adam Plachetka.

Dvořák wrote his Te Deum in 1892 during his time teaching in America, an experience that also inspired his ‘New World’ Symphony. It is a joyous affirmation of his Catholic faith, with exuberant choruses, lyrical solos for soprano and bass, and more than a hint of the folk music of the composer’s native Bohemia. For this rendition, the Bamberger Symphoniker is joined by the Edinburgh Festival Chorus.

Named after the angel of death, Suk’s soul-searching Asrael Symphony (1906) commemorates both Dvořák and his daughter Otilie, Suk’s wife. Across its five movements, Asrael Symphony depicts a journey from anguish to transcendent hope. It includes a dramatic ‘dance of death’, a tender portrait of Otilie and a concluding radiant vision of eternity.

The Warm Up: Bamberger Symphoniker

Meet our first resident orchestra: Bamberger Symphoniker. Chief Conductor Jakub Hrůša and Nicola Benedetti give insight into how they have creating this special programme, which explores the personal connections and lineage of musical mentorship between generations of composers. Jakub also shares his own rituals in preparations for a performance.

The Warm Up: Bamberger Symphoniker

Buy standard price tickets for all three Bamberger evening concerts at Usher Hall and get 20% off. Excludes concessions and top-price tickets, more details over on Booking Info.



The Bamberger Symphoniker Residency is supported by James and Morag Anderson with additional support from Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany

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    Programme

    A souvenir programme is available for this performance. Available at the venue for £10 (card only). You can also pick up a freesheet with all the essential information you’ll need.

    Full Programme

    Bamberger Symphoniker
    Jakub Hrůša Conductor

    Edinburgh Festival Chorus
    James Grossmith Chorus Director

    Kateřina Kněžíková Soprano
    Adam Plachetka Baritone

    Dvořák Te Deum*
    Suk Asrael