Liudmyla Monastyrska sings soprano part in Britten’s War Requiem at Konzerthaus Berlinin on March 29 2024
https://www.konzerthaus.de/en/programm/17-12-2023
War Requiem by Benjamin Britten
"War Requiem" is a large-scale choral work composed by the English composer Benjamin Britten. It was written in 1961 for the consecration of the new Coventry Cathedral, which had been rebuilt after the original cathedral was destroyed during World War II. The premiere took place on May 30, 1962, in the new cathedral, with Britten conducting.
The composition is unique in that it combines the traditional Latin text of the Requiem Mass with poems by Wilfred Owen, a British poet who served in World War I and wrote about the harsh realities of war. The juxtaposition of the Latin Mass and Owen's poetry creates a powerful and poignant commentary on the horrors of war and the quest for peace.
The work is scored for soprano, tenor, and baritone soloists, mixed choir, boys' choir, and a large orchestra. The soloists represent the human drama, while the choirs and orchestra provide the ceremonial and reflective aspects of the Requiem Mass.
Britten's "War Requiem" is considered one of his major masterpieces and a significant contribution to 20th-century choral and orchestral repertoire. Its emotional depth and anti-war message continue to resonate with audiences, making it an important work in the classical music canon.
