Dark Night of the Soul | Gala Concert 2023

The famous Norwegian composer, Ola Gjeilo, born May 5th 1978, is best known for his choral works: Sunrise Mass, Magnum Mysterium and Unicornus Captivatur. Ancient texts and tales of old not only inspire but juxtapose these contemporary works.
Dark Night of the Soul is based on St. John of the Cross’s mysterious medieval poem of the same name. Segments of the poem which can be heard in Gjeilo’s work include:
“In a dark night
With Anxious Love inflamed,
Forth unobserved I went,
My house being now at rest.”
“In darkness and in safety,
By the secret ladder disguised,
Seeing naught myself,
Without light or guide.”
A deeply religious text, the poem stands as a metaphor for the soul in prayer. Through contemplation, he escapes the world unnoticed to meet in a loving relationship with God. The Dark Night refers to the soul’s search for his father beyond the confines of a man-made definition which we have allocated to God.
But the true meaning of Dark Night is unique to us all. For many of the singers of the UPYC, both past and present, we have experienced many dark nights searching for the foundation of our souls.
Being part of this family, we have pressed on through the tough times and come out stronger in the end. Dark Night of the Soul represents a process of growth: realizing one’s struggle, surrendering to the process, finding self-acceptance, trusting those who love you and, finally, expressing your gratitude through prayer and meditation.
May this spiritual journey be as significant for you as it has been for us.
Thank you:
Robert Gush - Sound Recording
Neil Musto - Video Recording
University of Pretoria Youth Choir conducted by Lhente-Mari Pitout. 90 singers from 33 different High Schools aged 14-19 in the greater Pretoria, South Africa. Locally loved, Internationally acclaimed.
Brilliance, Passion, Prestige!
Inspiring young South Africans for a better future in our beautiful country.
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linktr.ee/UPYouthChoir

[@mattsweitzer5372]

Amazing performance, praise God!

[@andreamitas1714]

This was such a momentous occasion. A truly great performance of this wonderful work.

[@Leedzadza]

My absolute favourite piece to learn. Loved singing with the choir again 🤍

[@botlhalepoopedi9331]

❤