Composed in the late 18th century, The Creation (Die Schöpfung) is widely regarded as Joseph Haydn’s crowning masterpiece. Inspired by the Book of Genesis and Milton’s Paradise Lost, the oratorio paints a vivid musical picture of the birth of the world – from the chaos before light, to the glorious emergence of sun, moon, stars, seas, animals, and humankind. With its majestic choruses, playful arias, and dramatic orchestral colour, The Creation captures both the grandeur of the cosmos and the delicate beauty of nature.