Sir James MacMillan - Composer in Residence
Composer and conductor Sir James MacMillan is an artist whose work unites music, conviction and humanity in a rare and compelling way.
I am in paradise, when ...
"Who knows what Paradise will be or will mean at the end of our lives? But I think we get a glimpse of it through our love of music. Composers have long suspected that there is an umbilical connection between music and the sacred, and I think that is what we are searching for when we write music. One feels the presence of Paradise sometimes unexpectedly in the mysterious process of composition."
Tabita Berglund - Principal Guest Conductor
For Tabita Berglund’s generation of conductors, precision and emotion are not opposing qualities but complementary ones. Since last season, the young Norwegian has been Principal Guest Conductor of the Dresdner Philharmonie.
I am in paradise when...
„To quote Jon Fosse: I am in paradise when an angel walks across the stage. For me, these are the rare moments when we are no longer playing the music, but the music is playing us – the orchestra, the audience and even the conductor are captivated by it. It is an overwhelming experience that can change your life, and one that I have only experienced twice so far. I would consider myself very fortunate if I were to experience it again. Perhaps it will happen this season, together with you in Dresden?"
Kirill Gerstein - Artist in Residence
Jazz or classical music? Kirill Gerstein feels at home in both worlds. As a child, he explored his parents’ jazz records and played what he heard on the piano. As a teenager, he turned to classical music – yet in his agile, sparkling playing, jazz still seems close at hand. During his residency with us, he invites audiences into both worlds.
I am in paradise when...
"Don't we have a unique opportunity to create a little paradise around us? When I have the opportunity to touch the magical substance of music, to connect with some of the greatest geniuses in human history through their works, and to trace their musical ideas with my hands on the keyboard, in harmony with the musicians on stage and in connection with the audience in the hall – for me, that is one of those moments when I feel close to paradise."
Iveta Apkalna – Palace Organist
Iveta Apkalna is one of the most influential artists on her instrument and one of those who have permanently changed the image of the organ in the 21st century.
I am in paradise when...
"I haven't been to paradise yet, but I can only recall the moments and the state in which I felt “like I was in paradise” and long for those feelings again.
I feel like I'm in paradise when the boundaries of everyday life shift or even disappear completely. Often these are fleeting moments, but sometimes it lasts for a longer period of time.
For example, when I'm at a concert and I feel deeply connected not only to the music but also to the people in the audience, and we go on an emotional, transcendent journey together."