Collegium Vocale Gent, the world-famous Belgian ensemble that was formed half a century ago, and its founding conductor, Philippe Herreweghe, are best known for the performance of baroque music. It is probably no exaggeration that the sound they represent has had an essential influence on how today’s listeners relate to early music. Many consider their performances of Bach’s two passions exemplary, and since 1985, the ensemble has recorded the St Matthew Passion on multiple occasions. However, rather than abiding by the tried and tested method when preparing for a new performance, Herreweghe and his ensemble keep looking for new inspirations, exploring the possibilities inherent in the given work and waiting to be unfolded. The same spirit of inquiry and versatility led to their recent recordings of works by Liszt, Gesualdo and Stravinsky.

This concert of the Bartók Spring is presented by Müpa Budapest as a joint event with Liszt Academy.