This is a story about conscience, conviction and the cost of integrity.
For centuries, the icon of Joan of Arc has been interpreted, reimagined and retold. A powerful new work seeks to restore her voice, allowing Joan’s legend to be heard on her terms.
Former MSO Composer in Residence Mary Finsterer and librettist Tom Wright have delved deeply into the 1431 heresy trial transcripts, meaning what you’ll hear is largely Joan’s own words and those of her interrogators.
This Oratorio has a dramatic narrative which is told through narrator, soloists, two choirs and orchestra. The plot unfolds between heaven and earth, beginning with the divine prophecy and ending beyond her execution. “It’s a profound journey of the heart,” Finsterer says. “From fear to courage, from suffering to transcendence.”
Finsterer has layered her sophisticated and contemporary orchestral style with medieval and early Baroque influences, creating a sphere of sound that is reflective of Joan’s 15th century for today’s listener.
After all, this is not a history lesson, but an invitation to experience something luminous, philosophic and accessible to all people. “This piece provides the audience the opportunity to respond to their own imagination,” Finsterer says. “Then it ceases to be my work – it’s actually theirs.”
