A Millennium Event in Lviv Takes on a New Dimension

On June 29, 2016, at 7:30 PM, the concert Incarnation of Matter took place in the Latin Cathedral of Lviv. It was a unique convergence of musical instruments unlike anything previously seen in world practice. Before the audience's eyes, an intuitive musical improvisation was born - a performance that could never be repeated again.

Ten years later, we return to this remarkable event to experience it together once more.

The significance of this musical project extended far beyond Ukraine and became possible thanks to the visit of Lithuanian gong master Andrejus Sutuginas. One of the most renowned practitioners in his field, he possesses a unique collection of ancient instruments and is known for conducting sound-healing sessions. Yet even for him, a concert of this format became a first-of-its-kind experience. Joining the guest from Vilnius were Ukrainian improvisational musicians, each already recognized as a master of their art.

The improvisation united the Indian bansuri flute performed by Oleksandr Makarov, the stringed tambura played by master musician Borys Kapusta, and the violin of talented Lviv violinist Mariia Tkachyk, concertmaster and soloist of the INSO-Lviv Academic Symphony Orchestra.

A sacred space was the only possible setting for such an event. The Latin Cathedral of Lviv provided the perfect acoustic environment, allowing the rare and extraordinary instruments to reveal their full sonic depth.

In this anniversary year, the concert will become accessible to audiences around the world. For the first time, a feature-length film based on the unique recording of Incarnation of Matter will be presented. Through an online screening, viewers from every country and continent will have the opportunity to take part.

This is far more than a concert recording. It is an immersive cinematic experience that invites viewers into the atmosphere of living musical co-creation - a unique moment born in Lviv and preserved on film as an unrepeatable fragment of time.

The film was directed by Taras Dron, who succeeded in capturing not only the musical performance itself but also its distinctive atmosphere, the sacred space of the cathedral, and the subtle interaction between the musicians. As a result, audiences will be able to become participants in this extraordinary event ten years after its creation.

The film's authenticity is further enhanced by its preserved original sound. Thanks to the expertise of sound engineer Ivan Ohar, the rich, deep, and living soundscape of the concert has been carefully maintained, conveying not only the music but also the very acoustics of the Latin Cathedral where this unique improvisation came to life.

For the fullest experience, we recommend watching the film with headphones. This will allow you to hear the finest nuances of the instruments and immerse yourself completely in the sonic space of the performance.

Following the screening, a live online conversation with gong master Andrejus Sutuginas will take place. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn more about ancient instruments, the art of improvisation, and sound practices, and personally connect with one of the creators of this unique musical event.

What took place ten years ago within the walls of a single cathedral in Lviv can now be heard and experienced by the entire world.