The Requiem by Verdi is a composition in the structure of a Catholic funeral Mass (the most famous Requiem is Mozart’s).  It was completed to mark the anniversary of the death of Alessandro Manzoni, An Italian poet.  It is known as the second best Requiem ever written (after Mozart’s) and is world famous for the double chorus needed to pull off the spectacular sound.  My good friend is one of those in the chorus.

An Orchestra and Double Chorus Performing Verdi’s Requiem

The terrifying “Dies Irae” introduces the traditional sequence of the Latin funeral feelings.  Trumpets surround the stage throughout the piece to produce the “inescapable call to Judgement of the Tuba mirum”   After this the famous tenor solo Ingemisco sends hope to the penitent dead.  The joyful “Sanctus”  starts with a “brass-filled fanfare to announce the coming of the Lord.”  Thus ends the Requiem.

Today, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra will be performing the piece along with the BPO chorus.  The BPO are adding a little twist to the story.  Instead of just performing the piece, they are including the story of the Defiant Requiem.  This was when a group of Nazi concentration camp prisoners performed the Requiem without expressed order to do so.  I cannot wait to see and hear this show.  I will rate it as a comment when I return.

Pete Seeger a Few Years Ago

Just recently, Pete Seeger, a true American hero and singer-songwriter, turned 89.  Mr. Seeger, happy birthday and many more.  Thanks for helping me become who I am.

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