A Tapestry of Sacred Music 2023

28 Apr – 1 May 2023

Encounter the beauty of sacred traditions from familiar and distant lands.

Producer’s message

Dear audience,

 

Welcome to the 14th edition of Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay’s A Tapestry of Sacred Music—a festival where we bring together practitioners of different faith communities in a sharing of their cultural expressions. Taking place from 28 Apr – 1 May 2023, this is a one-of-a-kind event in the region and presents rare access to music that is often cloistered within places of worship. And yet, because these musical practices are inspired by the concept of a higher power and refined over generations of devotional practice, they are also some of humankind’s most intriguing and moving expressions.

 

The music is rooted in diverse beliefs, and continues to evolve under unique geographies, histories, and social constructs; all aiming to provide their perspective on a greater, ethereal truth. Likewise, the sounds differ in accordance with the needs of the believers; they may be ecstatic with joyful praise, or resolute and affirming, or heart-rendering in sorrow.

 

In spite of their different lineages, all sacred music addresses the same emotional states, uncertainties, hopes, and anxieties we all face in this earthly realm. And the fact that there can be emotional resonance with the music of another faith, is a reminder that we have more in common as people than that which divides us.

 

The programme line-up this year is a rich array of sounds, with artists that hail from temples, mosques, shrines, churches; the mausoleums of saints, rural villages, and sacred grounds in nature.

 

We hope you will come with open hearts and minds to explore the colourful traditions that reflect the diversity of human faith, and celebrate our common humanity.

 

Tan Xiang Hui
Producer, The Esplanade Co Ltd

About the festival

 

A Tapestry of Sacred Music was launched by Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay in 2009. The festival offers the rare opportunity for everyone to encounter the beauty of these varied cultural expressions practised by communities all over the world, in a secular setting. Over the years, we have presented more than 36 religious denominations, as well as the sacred art forms of 56 different communities, creating a rich tapestry of some of humanity’s most affecting and powerful musical expressions.

 

Since 2017, we have gone a step further and made this festival a completely free one for all to enjoy, so that there are no barriers to this aural and visual celebration. Esplanade is a charity and not-for-profit organisation, and this year, A Tapestry of Sacred Music is made possible with the generous support of High Commission of India, Singapore, Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry Foundation and The Silent Foundation. Help keep this festival free by making a contribution at donation boxes placed around Esplanade, or donate online through Giving.sg.


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