Audiences in Brattleboro will have a chance to enjoy a concert soon featuring a masterpiece of classical music.
The Blanche Moyse Chorale is participating in Brahms’ Requiem. A requiem is usually the formal Roman Catholic Mass for the Dead set to music and sung in Latin. Although the requiem is based on religious teachings, it has extended to become a major, non-denominational musical event. When events such as this are planned, organizers can use brochure printing to create programs for audience members.
Many other composers have written requiems including Berlioz, Mozart, and Haydn. Brahms composed his work, formally titled “A German Requiem, to Words of the Holy Scriptures, Op. 45” between 1865 and 1868. Unlike other requiems, it is sung in German, not Latin, and runs between 65 to 80 minutes. Also, it is based on Martin Luther’s translation of the Bible, making it a less commonly heard rendering.
The work is huge, featuring an orchestra, baritone and soprano soloists, and a chorus, in this case the Blanche Moyse Chorale. Blanche Moyse founded the chorale in 1978, with the intention of focusing mostly on the works of J.S. Bach. The chorale has since expanded its repertoire.
Music lovers have two chances to enjoy the requiem, on June 17 at 7:30 pm, and June 19 at 2:00 pm, at the Brattleboro Music Center.
