Jazz im Dom PRAYER WHEEL

Jazz at the Cathedral – PRAYER WHEEL
8:30 PM | St. Stephen’s Cathedral

With PRAYER WHEEL, St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna becomes the setting for an extraordinary concert evening between sacred music, jazz, and cultural dialogue. This remarkable jazz mass by Karén Asatrián combines spiritual depth, rich sonic diversity, and contemporary expression in a work that goes far beyond a traditional concert experience.

On the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, the Philharmonia Choir Vienna and the Upper School Choir of the Mozart Music High School / Music High School Salzburg, together with a jazz ensemble, create a powerful musical statement for peace, humanity, and interreligious dialogue. In the sacred atmosphere of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, this performance gains even greater emotional intensity and social relevance.

The mass is based on the early Christian liturgy, including Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei, and combines Western musical tradition with Oriental sound colors and improvisational jazz elements. Mantra-like repetitions and the use of Latin also refer to Buddhist prayer wheels, which give the work its title. The result is a fascinating musical journey that moves from meditative stillness to radiant celebration.

Since its premiere in 2015 at the Konzerthaus Klagenfurt and a performance at the Salzburg Festival in 2016, PRAYER WHEEL has been regarded as an important work of contemporary sacred music. This performance at St. Stephen’s Cathedral gives the composition a particularly special resonance through its date, venue, and large-scale ensemble.

At the same time, the concert marks the grand finale of the Armenian festival SOUNDS OF ARMENIA, which in the preceding days brings literature and music into a compelling dialogue and gives voice to the living cultural spirit of Armenia. This makes the evening not only musically exceptional, but also culturally and socially meaningful.

Anyone interested in extraordinary concert experiences, great choral music, jazz, and artistic depth should not miss this evening at St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Book your tickets now and experience PRAYER WHEEL live at Jazz at the Cathedral in St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna.

program

Karén Asatrián: Jazzmesse Prayer Wheel

90 Minuten, keine Pause

Place

St. Stephen’s Cathedral Vienna – The Iconic Landmark and a Gothic Masterpiece

St. Stephen’s Cathedral, affectionately known as "Steffl," is Vienna’s most famous landmark and one of the most important Gothic structures in Europe. Located in the heart of the city on Stephansplatz, the cathedral captivates visitors with its towering South Tower (136.4 meters), colorful tiled roof, and intricately decorated façade.

Since its construction in the 12th century, St. Stephen’s Cathedral has been the spiritual center of Vienna, representing the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Inside, visitors can admire its stunning altars, exquisite stained glass windows, and the famous "Pummerin" bell. The catacombs, where many historical figures are buried, are also a fascinating part of the cathedral’s history.

Beyond its religious significance, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is also an important venue for classical concerts, organ performances, and special church services.

Getting There by Public Transport

Subway:

• U1, U3 Stephansplatz station – direct access to the cathedral

Tram:

• Lines 1, 2, 71, D (Kärntner Ring, Oper stop) – about a 5-minute walk

Bus:

• Lines 1A, 2A, 3A (Stephansplatz stop)

Thanks to its central location in Vienna’s first district, the cathedral is easily accessible from all parts of the city.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral Vienna – A Historic Landmark with Timeless Beauty

Whether as a place of faith, a historic monument, or a musical venue, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a must-see attraction, combining architectural splendor, cultural heritage, and a profound historical legacy.