The Creation, by revered Austrian composer Joseph Haydn, has long been considered one of the most outstanding examples of a classical oratorio (that's a large-scale narrative musical work for orchestra and voices, if you're not a classical music buff). It was inspired by Haydn's trips to England between 1791 and 1795, during which time he heard fellow composer Handel performing his own oratorios with large forces.
Well, as they say, the rest is history – the first public performance of The Creation took place in 1799, and it would go on to become one of the most successful choral works in Western musical history.
And now, you can experience it for yourself when the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Choir and Orchestra, along with the Melbourne University Choral Society, perform the work in the beautiful setting of St Paul's Cathedral.
Leading the huge choral and orchestral forces is chief conductor Andrew Wailes, and he'll be joined five all-star soloists: Australian/American soprano Rachelle Durkin, Japanese/Australian mezzo-soprano Syrah Torii, tenor Michael Petruccelli and bass-baritone Christopher Richardson.
For lovers of Haydn, this is set to be a musical event you won't want to miss. There will be two exclusive performances of The Creation on Saturday, June 14 at 2pm and 7pm. For more information, visit the website.