About this Event
Light in the Darkness
Sunday, November 22 2026 | 7:00 pm
"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." — John 1:5
A November concert perfectly placed just ahead of the Advent season. Mendelssohn's Fingal's Cave evokes the sublime power of creation, while Schumann's Piano Concerto speaks of struggle and transcendence. The Italian Symphony closes the evening with radiant joy — a declaration that light prevails.
Program
A Musical Friendship — Mendelssohn and Schumann
Felix Mendelssohn and Robert Schumann were two of the most important composers of 19th-century German music, and they shared a close friendship built on mutual respect and encouragement. Their connection extended beyond music, as both were deeply rooted in the Christian faith. Their sense of wonder toward God, humanity, and the created world can be heard throughout their music.
The program opens with Mendelssohn’s The Hebrides (Fingal’s Cave) Overture, inspired by the dramatic beauty of the Hebrides Islands off the coast of Scotland. The surging waves and towering cliffs are vividly brought to life through music, offering a glimpse of the majesty and wonder of nature as created by God.
We then turn to Schumann’s Piano Concerto, a work that reflects the close musical relationship between the two composers. Mendelssohn recognized Schumann’s talent early on and was among those who encouraged and championed his music. He held Schumann’s Piano Concerto in high regard, and their friendship was an important source of support for Schumann during his career.
We are especially delighted to welcome pianist Seho Lee as our soloist for this performance. Active on concert stages across Korea, China, Europe, and the United States, Seho brings an international perspective and a distinctive musical voice to Schumann’s deeply expressive concerto. We very much look forward to sharing his artistry with our audience.
The evening concludes with Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony, a vibrant and joyful work filled with the energy, colour, and spirit of Italy. Through these three works, we hope to celebrate not only two remarkable musical voices, but also the friendship, faith, and artistic inspiration that connected them.
Event venue & nearby stays
St. Giles Presbyterian Church in Calgary, 1102 23 Avenue Northwest, Calgary, Canada
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