Britten War Requiem

Last weekend I had the privilege to perform with the chorus for Benjamin Britten’s monumental War Requiem. The piece was composed for the dedication and consecration of the Coventry Cathedral and it uses the typical latin requiem format interspersed with poetry of Great Britain’s Wilfred Owen who was killed just days before the end of the first World War. It is challenging both musical and emotionally.

When the chorus first began rehearsing the work in September I found myself challenged musically. As the weeks progressed, I still had a difficult time wrapping my mind around how the whole work would eventually come together to create something that has touched numerous hearts and minds since it’s first performance in May of 1962.

As we continued to rehearse, I kept finding people who hold the War Requiem near and dear to their hearts. And, admittedly, I still did not. Finally, during one of the orchestral dress rehearsals, while singing through the In Paradisum section, I got it. This particular section employs the use of a chamber orchestra, baritone and tenor soloists, a large scale orchestra, symphonic chorus, and soprano soloists, and an organ and children’s chorus. The final weaving together of so many voices and instruments combining such rich texts and textures made it all click. It’s gorgeous and emotional work both for the performer and listener.

I feel humbled and grateful to be part of the musical legacy of such a piece. If you've never heard the work, I encourage you to read through the poetry of Wilfred Owen prior to listening. Check out the Colorado Symphony’s dress rehearsal of the In Paradisum, the point where it all came together for me.