ROTHKO
CHAPEL

England & Europe
5—10 May 2024

What does a painting sound like?

In this audio-visual live concert, we turn to the painter Mark Rothko’s immense canvases for inspiration, reimagining them through sound and light.

At the heart of the experience is Morton Feldman’s sonic meditation for chamber choir, solo viola, celeste and percussion. The 30-minute piece was written as a tribute to the abstract artist shortly after he took his life, and references the chapel housing his formidable black paintings. A unique lighting installation frames this musical journey, beckoning listeners to find a space of introspection and contemplation.

Three world premieres capture the emotional essence of Rothko’s art. Be the first to hear new commissions by composers working at the cutting edge of contemporary classical music, including film and TV composer Isobel Waller-Bridge; long-time Collective collaborator Edmund Finnis; and American composer Katherine Balch.

With its haunting beauty and resonance, Rothko Chapel invites us to explore the depths of our inner world and connect with the transcendent power of art.

Manchester Collective: Rothko Chapel is co-commissioned by the Southbank Centre and supported by Cockayne Grants for the Arts, a donor-advised fund held at The London Community Foundation.

Dates & Tickets

5 May – London – Southbank Centre – Book →
7 May – Leverkusen, Germany – Erholungshaus – Book →
8 May – Antwerp, Belgium – De Singel – Book →
10 May – Manchester – Bridgewater Hall – Book →

Check times, ticket prices and access info via the booking links above.

Setlist

Katherine Balch songs and interludes (world premiere)
Morton Feldman Rothko Chapel
Edmund Finnis Blue Divided by Blue (world premiere)
Missy Mazzoli Vespers for Violin
Arvo Pärt Solfeggio
Kaija Saariaho 7 Papillons, No. 2
Giacinto Scelsi Ave Maria
Isobel Waller-Bridge No. 9 (world premiere)

Approximate runtime: 80 minutes

LISTEN TO ‘ROTHKO CHAPEL’ ON SPOTIFY →

Rakhi Singh Violin
Donald Grant Violin
Ruth Gibson Viola
Nick Trygstad Cello
Delia Stevens Percussion
Katherine Tinker Celeste
Lucinda Cox Soprano
Fiona Fraser Soprano
Daisy Walford Soprano
Clover Willis Soprano
Laura Baldwin Alto
Amy Blythe Alto
Anna Semple Alto
Jack Granby Tenor
Will Wright Tenor
Piers Connor Kennedy Bass
Ben Tomlin Bass
Tom Herring Conductor, Bass

PART OF

23/24

EXPLORE THE SEASON

We’re all about the atmosphere and immersion. You might encounter lighting to set the mood, amplified sound to deliver music straight to your eardrums, or maybe a little bit of haze.
Between pieces, our performers often share a short explanation about the music. They might chat about what to listen out for, the themes or their personal experience.
Rather than the standard black attire, our musicians wear what they feel is comfortable: whether that’s a colourful dress, or a woolly jumper if it’s chilly.
To us, music is most powerful when it’s immediate and personal, not bound by convention. Whether you’re a first-timer or veteran concert-goer, you’re invited to a new kind of classical music experience.
From warehouses to concert halls, everywhere we play is unique.
At underground and independent venues, it’s a more intimate experience. You can expect to get up close and personal to the musicians, hear outside noise and grab a drink at the bar. Don’t forget to wrap up warm!
The “Book” links under Dates & Tickets lead to venue websites. There, you’ll be able to find specific access information. Please note that some independent venues might be standing shows, with the option to request a seat if you need one. This will be specified on the booking page.
If you have any questions at all about access, get in touch at events@manchestercollective.co.uk and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.
Our performances aren’t formal – so you don’t have to be either! Dress in whatever style makes you feel comfortable, just as our performers do.
If you’ve never been to a classical concert before, you might be worried about rules and etiquette. That’s not what we’re about. You’re free to bring the same excitement and respect you would to any other performance.
Depending on the venue, you might be able to take a couple photos and short videos during the show. If you’re filming the entire gig, we promise we have better recordings on our YouTube channel.
All we ask is that you listen with an open mind and ears.