The most beautiful requiem of the 20th century
Narodowej Orkiestry Symfonicznej Polskiego Radia, Concert Hall (Katowice)
Maurice Duruflé’s Requiem is said to be one of the most beautiful and moving sacred pieces of the 20th century. Composed in 1947, the work was born out of fascination with traditional choral music, but it shows no dearth of a “symphonic” scope, simultaneously being deeply reflective in its character. Elements of the Gregorian chant interwoven with modern harmonisation and subtle orchestration create a uniquely contemplative atmosphere and encourage one to slow down in the October rush of preparations for All Souls’ Day. Alexandra KozowiczConcert duration: approximately 70 minutes