|
|
Concerts
|
Classic Music
|
Giuseppe Verdi wrote his Messa da Requiem in memory of his famous compatriot, the novelist Alessandro Manzoni, who died in 1873. He shared Manzoni's political ideas —in support of the Risorgimento and the unity of Italy— and his ideals of justice and humanity. His Requiem was sung for the first time in the church of San Carlo in Milan on 22 May 1874, the first anniversary of Manzoni's death. It was greeted with great enthusiasm and was performed soon afterwards at La Scala and all over Europe. It calls for a large orchestra, four soloists and a large choir. The text and structure —with few exceptions— match the traditional mass of the Catholic liturgy. Though religious mysticism is lacking —Verdi's convictions were hardly conducive to it—, it is impregnated with human emotions such as sorrow, fear and the yearning for consolation and is based on liturgical texts. The score is reminiscent of the theatrical music in which Verdi was so proficient and contains vigorous rhythms, sublime melodies and dramatic contrasts that convey the powerful emotions underscored by the text. The Dies irae of the Latin liturgy, which evokes the devastation of the Apocalypse, acts as a leading thread and confers on the work a great sense of unity. Giuseppe Verdi: Messa da Requiem Angela Brown, Luciana d'Intino, Josep Bros, René Pape The Symphony Orchestra and Chorus of the Gran Teatre del Liceu Cor de Cambra del Palau de la Música Conductor: Bruno Bartoletti
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|