Did you know that, contrary to what Google and Wikipedia will tell you, Hildegard von Bingen was not an abbess, but a magistra?
Did you know that she played the ten-stringed psaltery and likely would have accompanied herself singing?
And did you know that the "spices of joy" she wrote about in her medicinal treatise were cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg...the exact blend in your local coffee shop's pumpkin spice latte? (Treat yourself to a PSL in Hildegard's honor this month!)
The Heri et Hodie Schola invites you to a concert honoring the feast day of Hildegard von Bingen, who died on September 17, 1179. Held in beautiful Mother of God, one of Northern Kentucky's gems, the program will highlight women composers on both ends of the timeline: Hildegard's own chants alongside modern pieces that draw on her work for inspiration. This varied aural landscape, woven throughout with organ interludes, makes for a very accessible concert—even for those who don't consider themselves chant fans or Hildegard nerds.
The Music of the Mystics series grew out of director Krista Cornish Scott's deep appreciation of the writings of the Christian mystical tradition. This particular concert came about through a collaboration with Meg Booker and Rebecca Wells. Thanks to Fr. Comer, Mother of God has been looking to expand its musical offerings to the community, and Music of the Mystics is a beautiful fit for its incredible sacred space and generous acoustic.
Tickets are not required. Freewill offerings gratefully accepted at the door.
ABOUT THE HERI ET HODIE SCHOLA: This is an all-community concert. Some of the participants sing professionally elsewhere, some have extensive musical backgrounds, and some simply enjoy Hildegard and singing but don't have much background beyond that. All are welcome to learn and sing together as the women in Hildegard's community would have, and rehearsals focused not only on the music to be learned, but also on learning about Hildegard's life and getting to know one another. It's a unique niche experience for singers of all levels who enjoy performing together outside of the usual routine of an ongoing weekly commitment.