Easter and the Verdi Requiem

Last night I went to the WSO's performance of Verdi's Requiem. It was beautiful. This composition has so much drama and emotional intensity, parts of it made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. I think even people who aren't fans of classical music would like it.. To listen to my favourite part see below.

The history of the Requiem is really interesting. First performed in Italy in1874, the composer Giuseppe Verdi's inspiration came from his favorite novel: The Betrothed, by Alessandro Manzoni. When the author was close to his death, Verdi decided that his passing deserved the creation of a grand musical testimony. Verdi's symphony premiered on the first anniversary of Manzoni's death.

It left a huge impression. Some listeners have criticized it as being too operatic, but IMO that is what makes it special, be it sacred or secular? Ever since it's first european tour it has been performed in concert halls rather than churches, probably because of this theatricality.

The Requiem is made for a large orchestra, 4 solo singers, as well as a full choir. The start is slow, quiet and filled with a sense of grieving. It prepares you for the greatest possible contrast.. An apocalyptic vision of the day when God passes judgment on our souls. Violent and raging, bass drums and the full choir in unison. here is a short video, Dies irae (Day of Wrath) performed by the New Russia Symphony. Obviously it's not like being there, but you'll see what it takes. The Requiem does have more positive parts--joyous hymns and chant-like duets. The last section is the most operatic, and the final gesture is a quiet ethereal ending.

Side note: A lot of people don't understand the importance of the conductor. The best way to describe is they are like the sun and the orchestra are the planets. Alexander Mickelthwate is the Winnipeg director and he is so awesome to watch. I'm pretty sure he has ADHD.

So who wants to create a famous symphony for me when I die? :P