A Tapestry of Sacred Music at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay

Offering a glimpse into the artistry of cultural expressions from religious and spiritual traditions, A Tapestry of Sacred Music returns for its 12th edition of the festival after a hiatus in 2020. The festival showcases music that is often cloistered in places of worship, from communities both within Singapore and abroad. Through the sharings of our artists, we aim to develop an appreciation for our differences, and at the same time acknowledging the common humanity expressed in these artforms.    

Particularly in an era of a long-drawn pandemic, there is a yearning for a profound source of comfort. What does it then mean to sing a hymn, intone devotional poetry or chant a mantra in a time like this? These musical expressions of faith become especially poignant because they are centring in nature, drawing us away from our myriad anxieties to a place of comfort and rebalance. Much of this music has outlived centuries of strife and tribulation, and in hearing them, a sense of constancy is invoked; a reminder of how we too, shall overcome the troubles before us. 

It is this common idea that unites the different faith communities taking part in the festival this year. Though the music comes from seemingly disparate geographies, beliefs and histories, they are all pertinent responses to the global situation at hand. Some of these are cathartic lamentations, while others are life affirming—prayers for healing, clarity and protection. Together, the music convey hopes, reaffirms convictions and take our minds to higher contemplations. 

As safe travel between countries remains a challenge, we have sought out some previous performers of the festival to send their wishes and music to our audiences through a series of “musical postcards”; videos performances of sacred music that are specially produced for the festival, in response to the pandemic. The artists include Nepalese nun Ani Choying Drolma, Turkish ney master Kudsi Erguner, Shona mbira master Fradreck Mujuru and Baul artist Parvathi Baul.  

Other efforts to connect our audiences with artists abroad include a concert showcasing parallel musical themes between the songs of 12th Century German mystic Hildegarde von Bingen, and the Sufi/Ottoman tradition of Kudsi Erguner. This will be a live-audience performance with Erguner represented through video, interacting with Singapore Early Music duo La Voix Médiévale at the Esplanade Concert Hall. Local and regional traditions are represented as well, such as the Sikh kirtans of the Gurmat Sangeet Academy, Taoist ceremonial music from Taoist Orchestra Singapore, chants of Thai monastics of Wat Ananda Metyarama, gamelan music of the different religions that were historically in Java, amongst other programmes. 

As with previous editions of the festival since 2017, the workshops, live and digital performances, remain free for everyone, with the aim removing barriers towards intercultural understanding and appreciation. It is made possible with the generous support of Principal Sponsor The Silent Foundation. Festival–goers can help keep this festival free by making a contribution at donation boxes placed around Esplanade, or donating through the website here: A Tapestry of Sacred Music (Donations) 

A Tapestry of Sacred Music takes place from 1—4 April 2021. For the full programme line-up, please visit www.esplanade.com/tapestry . We look forward to welcoming all with open hearts, to convene in appreciation of the offerings from our various communities. It is our hope that the music gives solace and nourishment in these very unusual times.