In the 19th century, much as today, a party wasn’t complete without music. Back then, of course, it was performed live. The liederabend – or “evening of song” – was a very popular form of social gathering and musical performance. There was food, drink, and company, and the great musicians of the day often sat down at the piano to serenade guests with their most recent songs. This is the environment that gave rise to Schumann’s greatest song-cycle Dichterliebe, or “A Poet’s Love.” Based on Heinrich Heine’s ephemeral and entrancing cycle of poems, Dichterliebe offers an inside look at the way an artist confronts the unknowability of love and longing.

This year, VMMF brings Dichterliebe to life with a totally different kind of concert format. Part cabaret, part salon, with a bit of houseparty thrown in as well, this luxurious and exclusive evening recreates all the conviviality of the 19th century liederabend – think food and drink, but also an up close/personal relationship with the artists themselves. It’s a chance, yes, to go back in time, but also to experience something new, a surprising way of hearing a beloved classic.

The evening  features delicious wine and food from area producers, as well as a chance to hang out with fellow concert goers and the musicians themselves during this immersive concert-experience.

Festival Co-Director fortepianist Eric Zivian joins VMMF favorite, tenor Kyle Stegall, who says about the evening, “The moments we will share with listeners in this performance will be truly once-in-a-lifetime, and will connect all of us to a sound world which will put us squarely in the heart of Schumann and Heine’s soul space.”

Approximately 1 hour without intermission 

SINGLE TICKETS:

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