Storm and harvest, light and fog, birdsong and hunting horns – Haydn's oratorio “The Seasons” is more than just a musical depiction of the annual cycle. It is a soundscape of life itself: in four parts – spring, summer, autumn, and winter – it depicts rural life in tune with the rhythms of nature. One female soloist and two male soloists represent the rural population and guide us through the scenes of the annual cycle, including a metaphysical outlook on eternal life. Haydn uses a variety of musical means to depict the sounds of nature and scenes of rural life – from sunrise to thunderstorms, from the croaking of frogs to hunting parties. With these tone-painting passages, he was far ahead of his time. Thus, this oratorio is not only considered his last great work, but also one of his most daring.

 

It is to be expected that the Friedrichshafen Philharmonic Choir will also perform this work brilliantly. After all, the choir has made a name for itself far beyond the region with its performances of important oratorios. Now it is time for “The Seasons” – in cooperation with the Lake Constance Philharmonic Orchestra, the Bad Saulgau Men's Choir, and a promising female soloist and two equally interesting male soloists.