Originally commissioned for the millennium celebrations, Karl Jenkins'The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace blends traditional Latin mass with poetry, historical texts, and a wide array of musical influences. In a time where the message of peace is more important than ever, The Armed Man offers a deeply emotional and relevant experience for today’s audiences. This mass for peace calls for reflection and unity in a world still marked by conflict.
The VU Koor, based in Amsterdam, with over 25 nationalities, represents a truly diverse and inclusive university choir that brings together voices from all walks of life. Our members, both students and non-students, unite around a shared passion for music and a commitment to making powerful art accessible and resonant. We’ve performed major works such as Verdi’s Requiem at Het Concertgebouw, Bach’s Mass in B minor, and Brahms’ Ein Deutsches Requiem. In October 2024 we were honored to take part in a special recording project commissioned by composer Bernd van den Bos and performed in collaboration with the renowned Dutch pianist Bert van den Brink. Lastly, during the Opera Forward Festival in March 2025, we also performed in Gregory Caers’ masterpiece Codes at the Dutch National Opera. The Armed Man will be a special collaboration with the VU Kamerorkest - guided under Jasper de Waal.
Performance: VU Koor & VU Kamerorkest
Conductor: Dody Soetanto
Soloists: Members of the VU Koor
Note: Doors will open 30min before the concert starts.
More information: vukoor.nl