In history, Benedict XVI will likely be remembered for his contributions to theology or his academic demeanor. But as numerous events in his pontificate show, the pope emeritus should also stand out for his passion for music.
Musical talent ran in the family. Benedict XVI learned to play the piano early on, while his brother Georg played the organ and composed music. In 2010, during a Mozart concert at Castel Gandolfo, he touched on those early roots.
BENEDICT XVI
September 7, 2010
“Every time I listen to Mozart's music, I can't help but think of my parish, where, as a boy, during feast days, we would hear his 'Mass.'”
Benedict XVI is particularly fond of classical and sacred music. In fact, one of the most common gifts he received as pope were concerts from prestigious choirs, orchestras and soloists from around the world. He often saw music as a pathway toward God.
BENEDICT XVI
August 11, 2012
“Music is an expression of spirit, a place inside the person, created for all that is true, good and beautiful. It is no coincidence that music often accompanies our prayers. It awakens our senses and our soul when, in prayer we find God.”
The German pope thought of sacred music as a bridge between religion and art. Within music, he also found deeper meanings, using analogies to apply it to everyday life.
BENEDICT XVI
October 1, 2010
“The most beautiful work of art, the masterpiece of human beings, is each act of authentic love: from the smallest (in everyday sacrifice) to the extreme sacrifice. At this point, life itself becomes a hymn, an anticipation of the symphony we will sing together in heaven.”
In January 2014, the Vatican released very rare footage of Benedict XVI, celebrating his brother Georg's 90th birthday, to the tune of a Bavarian folk music and chocolate cake.
RCA
