Every Friday at 8 p.m., fans of quality music and uplifting settings gather at Budapest’s St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István-bazilika) for an extraordinary organ concert series. The performances feature two organs, two outstanding organists, trumpet, and soprano vocals. The renowned András Virágh helps bring this musical experience to life.
Musical Lineup and Performers
The sound magic comes courtesy of Gábor Szotyori Nagy on the grand organ and Ágoston Tóka on the sanctuary organ. Lívia Scheer lends her soprano voice, while László Borsódy dazzles on trumpet. The repertoire is packed with crowd-pleasers: Charpentier’s Te Deum, Albinoni’s Adagio, Caccini’s Ave Maria, Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor, Handel’s Water Music, multiple Ave Marias, Liszt’s Hosannah, Franck’s Panis Angelicus, Purcell’s Trumpet Voluntary, Mascagni, and Widor’s dramatic Toccata.
A Royal Baroque Highlight
Handel’s Water Music debuted when King George I threw a party on the Thames, hiring 50 musicians for a floating orchestra. The king loved it so much that the piece was played three times, except for the harpsichord, which was too tricky to bring on the boat. At the Basilica, this classic is reimagined for organ and trumpet.
Details, Dates, and Tickets
Tickets range from $27 to $36, with discounts for students and seniors. Seats can be purchased on Thursdays and Fridays at the Basilica’s main entrance from 10 a.m. Concerts last 60 minutes, with upcoming dates throughout October and November. The organizers reserve the right to alter the program or schedule.
