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Episode details

Radio 3,09 Jun 2026,134 mins

Haydn's Creation

Radio 3 in Concert

Available for 29 days

From chaos to order, darkness to light, emptiness to abundance, Haydn's vivid and characterful musical setting of the biblical genesis story has enthralled audiences for over 200 years. Since its sensational premiere in Vienna in 1798, The Creation has been a pinnacle of the choral-orchestral repertoire, an oratorio to rival those of Haydn's great predecessor Handel. The combination of imaginative word-painting, vibrant orchestral colours and jubilant choruses makes it one of Haydn's most popular and spectacular pieces. In this performance the Chorus and orchestral musicians of Royal Northern Sinfonia are conducted by their Music Director Dinis Sousa, and joined by a superb trio of soloists: soprano Carolyn Sampson, tenor Laurence Kilsby and bass William Thomas. Presented by Mark Forrest and recorded on Sunday 17th May at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music in Gateshead. Joseph Haydn The Creation Carolyn Sampson (soprano) Laurence Kilsby (tenor) William Thomas (bass) Chorus of Royal Northern Sinfonia Royal Northern Sinfonia Dinis Sousa (conductor) To listen on most smart speakers, just say "ask BBC Sounds to play Radio 3 in Concert".

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Tracklist

  1. Track
    Artist
  2. 1.
    The Creation, Part 1
    The Creation, Part 1
    Joseph Haydn
  3. 2.
    The Creation, Part 2 (opening)
    The Creation, Part 2 (opening)
    Joseph Haydn
  4. 3.
    Keyboard Sonata in A minor Wq.57`2
    Keyboard Sonata in A minor Wq.57`2
    Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach
  5. 4.
    The Creation, Part 2 (conclusion)
    The Creation, Part 2 (conclusion)
    Joseph Haydn
  6. 5.
    The Creation, Part 3
    The Creation, Part 3
    Joseph Haydn
  7. 6.
    Piano Quartet in A minor
    Piano Quartet in A minor
    Gustav Mahler