Katharsis for mixed choir, percussion, and solo violin (world premiere)

Katharsis is a contemporary Mass consisting of 9 parts. It has been written for a mixed choir, percussion, and solo violin, where the violin part is based on improvisation, granting it complete freedom (connecting creation with the unpredictability and fragility of the human soul).

With the work Katharsis (from the Greek word “κάθαρσις”), the composer describes the process of the human soul’s redemption from the powerful emotions of oppression, which hinder its balanced functioning. It is a purifying process by nature, during which the soul can rid itself of the excess elements it acquired while performing its functions.

The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle described Katharsis as the emotional cleansing of fear and pity that tragedy induces. Of course, this can also be achieved through certain forms of art, such as ancient tragedy and music. Art can provoke an emotional cathartic release in an audience by connecting with their personal experiences.

Savvas Karantzias has written numerous works for orchestra, choir, chamber music. His works have been performed in different countries, including Greece, France, the USA, Australia etc.

Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir (EPCC)

Tõnu Kaljuste, direction

Chrysanthos Antoniou, violin

Vambola Krigul, percussion

The Estonian Ambassador in Greece Mrs Karin Rannu will honor us with her presence. 

Rhodos-Reval is a multidisciplinary event that celebrates the strong cultural and artistic links between France, Greece, and Estonia. Its aim is to promote exchanges between cultures, audiences, and disciplines. The events are produced in collaboration between the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir and the founders of the Festival European Polyphony, Arts Spontanés association, based in Paris, and the Greek association Ars Artis, based in Rhodes.