Welcome to our blog where we are excited to share the video of ‘7 – a meditation on Joseph Haydn’s Septem verba Christi in cruce’. This unique piece was written by our talented colleague Marcello Filotei, commissioned by Vatican Radio, and performed in the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall on 26 February 2023 by the percussion ensemble Ars Ludi with the voice of baritone Patrizio La Placa.
The work is a modern interpretation of Joseph Haydn’s “The Seven Last Words of Christ on the Cross,” a composition that has deep religious significance. The emotional words of Jesus’ cry, “My God, why have you forsaken me?” resonate with Christians around the world as they reflect on the crucifixion on Good Friday and the sacrifice made for their salvation.
Haydn’s original piece, composed in 1786 for a Good Friday service, consists of seven meditative sections that capture the essence of Jesus’ final moments on the cross. Filotei’s contemporary interpretation adds two interludes, creating a powerful “meditation” on humanity’s struggles, losses, and the eternal search for hope and resurrection.
We are thrilled to announce that this exceptional performance will also be broadcast on Italy’s public broadcaster Rai5 on 19 April at 11.35 p.m. Stay tuned to witness this moving and thought-provoking musical experience that reflects both tradition and innovation in a truly captivating way.
