Classical Persian music and concerts by the South Indian Baul – itinerate musicians from Bengal, renowned for their beautiful instruments, poetic language and joyful music. Eyal Sela from Israel, virtuoso on a wide range of wind instruments, tracing back klezmer traditions from Northern Israel. A long night of Sufi chants, offering an acoustical journey into fascinating sounds from Egypt and Morocco. Spiritual vocal music from different epochs: this year, once again, the House of World Cultures celebrates Christian Advent with sacred music from many different cultures.

From December 5-14 2003, the Festival of Sacred Music will explore the aesthetic and spiritual experience of the great musical traditions with their wide range of religious backgrounds. As a continuation of the “World Festival of Sacred Music”, which the Dalai Lama initiated at the turn of the millennium as a statement for world peace, the musical series carries on the dialogue between people from different cultures in a way that appeals to the senses. This year a major highlight will be the performance of the ancient Buddhist Yeongsanjae rituals by monks from the renowned Korean Bongweonsa Temple.

On Wednesday, December 3, 2003 at 11 a.m. a press conference will be held at the House of World Cultures, and klezmer virtuoso Eyal Sela will give a taste of his musical work. Johannes Odenthal (department head for music, dance and theater) and Gaby Tuch (music program coordinator) will offer an introduction to the program. We invite you to join us!

Yours truly,
Christine Regus, Press Office

We ask that you confirm your participation by calling (030) 397 87 153 or by mail: presse@hkw.de