
The two rock-carved
sandstone temples of Abu Simbel on the west bank of the Nile, were built
during the reign of Pharaoh
Ramses II.
The Great Temple is
dedicated to the deities Amun-Ra, Re-Harakhte, and Ptah, as well as to the
deified Ramses himself. It
is one of the best preserved temples in
Egypt. The innermost chamber of the
temple – the sacred sanctuary – contains four
seated statues depicting Ramses as equal to the three major and most revered
gods of Ancient Egypt.
Indeed, the Pharaoh was
the highest ruling power in the social hierarchy. He had divine right over
the people and was considered a god. Many pharaohs achieved lasting fame in the construction of
architectural marvels.
Ferrer Ferran’s music
is a land of colourful sound contrasts, a powerful and emotional experience.
The enchanting and
exotic melodic lines soar high over the waters of the Nile.
Abu Simbel was
commissioned by the Bernese Cantonal Music Association for the 22nd Bernese
Cantonal Music Festival,
June 2009, Büren on the Aare, Switzerland.