Benjamin Britten (1913-1976)
War Requiem for soloists, choirs and orchestra op. 66 (1962)
Joachim Krause, conductor
Susanne Bernhard, soprano
Thomas Mohr, tenor
Markus Eiche, baritone
Basel Bach Choir
The Zurich Mixed Choir
Basel Boys' Choir
An act of destruction and cultural barbarity was the impetus for the creation of one of the central works of 20th-century music.
Benjamin Britten's "War Requiem" is a work of quiet mourning, of remembrance for all those who died in war – and of reconciliation. The composition premiered on May 30, 1962, on the occasion of the consecration of the newly built cathedral in Coventry, England. Its medieval predecessor had been destroyed by German aerial bombs during the so-called "Operation Moonlight Sonata.".
The English composer used the commission he received to translate his deeply rooted pacifist and humanitarian convictions into music. In his powerful appeal against war, Britten juxtaposes the traditional text of the Latin Requiem Mass with the poignant poems of Wilfred Owen, a soldier who died at the age of 25 in the final days of the First World War.
Britten's monumental composition for orchestra, choirs, three solo voices and organ is not only considered a milestone in post-war music, but continues to overwhelm with its direct expression – a World War oratorio as a cautionary document of protest and resistance against the wars of the 20th century.
In light of the current war in Eastern Europe, this Requiem Mass has proven its relevance anew.
In cooperation with the Basel Bach Choir and the Zurich Mixed Choir
Program subject to change
