Passionate, complex and profoundly moving, Verdi's setting of the Requiem Mass, premiered in 1874, is one of the most compelling pieces in the choral repertoire. Those who love the composer’s operas will find much to relish in this work which, in this performance, is to be staged as it was originally conceived, without an interval and lasting approximately 90 minutes. The concert is in aid of ‘Singing for Syrians’; the initiative run by the health and education charity, Hands Up.
Conductor, Janet Lincé, said: “I am delighted to be bringing Verdi’s ever-popular dramatic recounting of the Requiem to Reading for this special concert given by members of my regular ensemble – Corona Strings – augmented by musicians from across the region, our friends and colleagues that comprise the superb Oxford Chorus and four hand-picked soloists.”
“This surely has to be one of the most magnificent choral works in the whole repertoire – a vocal tour-de-force that never fails to excite and move and one of the largest-scale works we have ever undertaken. There will be no half measures in this performance with a full team of 8 trumpets delivering the drama both on and off-stage and a perfect ensemble of soloists.”
Throughout the Requiem, Verdi uses characteristic dramatic contrasts to express the powerful emotions in the text. The terrifying Dies Irae (Day of Judgment) and the Sanctus’ memorable fugue for double chorus, are just some of the highlights from the work which will keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
Concert will raise funds for 'Singing for Syrians'
The charity, Hands Up, focuses on funding long-term and sustainable work in health and education in response to the vast and varying needs of those affected by Syria’s conflict, supporting projects both inside Syria and throughout surrounding countries. ‘Singing for Syrians’ encourages singing events to raise money as part of this wider initiative and collections made at the concert will benefit the charity.