The Flowers of Parnassus: A Woman’s Voice in Early Music at Christ Church Cathedral

“O place of beauty, in your honour, this golden tune doth sound so sweet and lovely.”   

Poetry by Gertrud Möller, music by Johann Sebastiani

with members of Christ Church Cathedral Choir & guest musicians

Saturday, July 20 | 3pm

Christ Church Cathedral
690 Burrard St (at Georgia), Vancouver | Suggested donation $20

Part of the Cathedral Summer Music Festival

Step into the air-conditioned comfort of downtown Vancouver’s Christ Church Cathedral for a captivating concert by members of the acclaimed Christ Church Cathedral Choir and guest artists. This special performance shines a spotlight on the 17th-century German Poet Laureate Gertrud Möller (1637–1705) and her Flowers of Parnassus songbooks, created in collaboration with Brandenburg court chapel master Johann Sebastiani (1622–83).

The Flowers of Parnassus concert features music meticulously researched and edited by UBC doctoral candidate Patricia Milewski. It’s a unique opportunity to enjoy Möller’s charming collection of spiritual and worldly songs, imagined as a bouquet of flowers picked from the fields of Mount Helicon and laid at the feet of Queen Eleonora of Poland. Möller’s hope was that her audience would be both edified and delighted by her words, beautifully adorned with Sebastiani’s music.

This concert offers a rare gateway into the Baroque domestic song culture and the creative practices of female authors. Whether you are a classical music aficionado, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for an afternoon of exquisite music, this event promises to be both enlightening and enjoyable.

After the concert, stay for an engaging Q&A session with Patricia Milewski, where you can delve deeper into the historical and musical contexts of the performance.

Join us for an afternoon of historical discovery and musical delight as we bring to life the poetic and musical treasures of the past.