Join Regal Ensemble for our Salon Series IV: Thursday, April 17, in Hamilton Montana. Featuring musicians Tasha Fain, Rachel Schnackel, Dr. Joel Schnackel, and others.

The Seven Last Words is a masterful multi-movement work centered around the seven expressions attributed to Jesus Christ during his crucifixion.The work was originally commissioned in 1786 for the Good Friday service at Holy Cave Oratory in Cádiz, Spain where it was performed by candlelight.

This work is highly interesting as it exists in three versions. Aside from the original 1786 orchestral version, the work was adapted by Haydn in 1787 for string quartet with the addition of an Introduction and an Earthquake finale.

In 1796 the work was reworked by the composer as an oratorio with full orchestra, chorus, and soloists. Haydn enlisted the assistance of Baron Gottfried van Swieten who provided the libretto. Haydn further added an Interlude movement for winds and brass.