At concert, pope says music can help unite people, build peace

Published: 2005-10-21

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Music can help people in their search for the "universal language of love" which unites all peoples and helps them build a more just and peaceful world, Pope Benedict XVI said on the occasion of the first concert held in honor of his pontificate. At the conclusion of the Oct. 20 concert, which featured pieces by Wolfgang Mozart, Giuseppe Verdi, Richard Wagner and other classical composers, the pope said such music "purifies and lifts us up" and "makes us feel the greatness and beauty of God." He said, "I hope that the harmony of song and music, which knows no social or religious barriers, represents a constant invitation to believers and all people of good will to look together for the universal language of love that enables people to build a world based on justice and solidarity, hope and peace." The pope made his address, in German and Italian, at the end of the musical performances of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra, the Athestis choir, and Germany's famed Regensburg boys choir.

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