On October 12, 2023, the world premiere of “Flights of the Angakok,” an expansive new composition by Lera Auerbach, will take place at Amsterdam’s Muziekgebouw. This large-scale piece scored for piano (percussion) and choir, finds its genesis in the profound experiences Lera encountered during her visits to the Arctic, connecting deeply with the poignant issues of vanishing cultural heritage and the pressing climate crisis.
“Flights of the Angakok” draws its inspiration from the Angakok, a revered shamanic figure central to the spiritual beliefs of the indigenous people of the Arctic. In this work, the pianist takes on the persona of the Angakok, journeying back to a time before humans to plead with Sedna, Mother of the Sea, for the renewal of life. Simultaneously, the choir performs a ritual-like song, evoking the spirits of nature—the light/sun, wind, and water. Through its music, the piece mirrors the formidable and robust nature of the Arctic while expressing concerns for the future of the planet’s climate and the continuity of the human species.
In Arctic societies, the Angakok occupies a central and indispensable role. Revered and respected as a highly-skilled mediator between the human realm and the mysterious spirit world, the Angakok’s significance extends far beyond mere ceremonial practices. Through a myriad of ancient and sacred rituals, they harness their profound knowledge and deep-seated connection with the spiritual realm to bring about healing, guidance, and the interpretation of enigmatic signs and dreams. Their mastery over the mystical arts enables them to navigate the complexities of life, offering solace and wisdom to their communities during times of crisis or uncertainty. With a profound understanding of the natural world and the unseen forces that shape it, the Angakok safeguards the delicate balance between the physical and spiritual dimensions, upholding the cultural heritage and spiritual harmony of their people. Their revered status within Arctic societies exemplifies the enduring importance of traditional wisdom and the continued relevance of spiritual guidance in the modern world.
Lera, a multi-talented artist who excels not only as a composer but also as a gifted poet, has skillfully crafted the libretto for “Flights of the Angakok” using the languages spoken by the people of the Arctic. To ensure the utmost accuracy in meaning and pronunciation, she collaborated closely with Inuit elders residing in Greenland and Canada.
“Flights of the Angakok” has been commissioned by the Nederlands Nederlands Kamerkoor, representing a sequel to Lera’s Symphony No. 4 “Arctica.” The earlier symphony was commissioned by National Geographic and had its premiere in 2019 at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.