Dances and Fantasies

1. Fürstenau Castle Concert "Dances and Fantasies – Experience the Music of Old Europe Anew" With the concert "Dances and Fantasies," the Kirchhoff Duo opens a sonorous window into the musical history of Europe. Lutz Kirchhoff (lute, moderation) and Martina Kirchhoff (viola da gamba) bring music from the late 14th to the end of the 18th century to life – delicate, subtle, dance-like, and full of expression. At the center are the lute and viola da gamba, two closely related instruments whose timbres complement each other in a special way. Already in the Renaissance, the lute was regarded as the "queen of instruments," while the viola da gamba, with its warm, singing voice, evokes emotional depth. Together, they unfold a musical language that once resonated in European courts, churches, private chambers, and the outdoors. The concert program takes the audience through various stages of this rich musical landscape: from courtly dances to imaginative variations to chamber works by great masters of their time. While listening, one can envision traveling musicians who roamed through Europe, touching people with their refined music. The combination of historical context and vibrant performance makes this era immediately accessible to today’s listeners. Especially in a fast-paced, technology-driven time, this music exerts its unique effect: it is orderly, calming, and simultaneously inspiring – a conscious pause in everyday life. A concert for lovers of historical music as well as for anyone who wishes to be surprised and slowed down by timeless sound art.