Duration: 30' Ensemble: SATB chamber orchestra Grading: Medium |
|
The ceaseless determination to prolong life by medical advances and
stave off the process of ageing has made death the final taboo ‒ an
insult rather than an inevitability. As a result, the loss of a loved
one comes as an appalling shock; the physical and emotional pain can
be overwhelming. These dark moments are explored and reflected upon
in Requiem Of Loss.
Requiem Of Loss is principally a choral work which takes the listener
on the journey from the first impact of losing someone, through the
many aspects of mourning, ending in one final, devastating realisation:
there is no option but to say goodbye.
The work is in nine movements, from the enraged Requiem Aeternam and
the masculine, rhythmic Kyrie Eleison to the feminine, ethereal Pie
Jesu, and the final reflection of O Lord Now Lettest Thou Thy Servant
Depart In Peace. The Libera Me is set as a duet a conversation between
a man and a woman who have lost a child. This movement is dedicated to
all those who have suffered a similar loss.
The requiem is set to the traditional Latin texts used in the Catholic
funeral service with added verses from the Bible.
Requiem Of Loss was written for and premiered by Bristol Chamber Choir in 2008.
Optional Orchestration:
Flute
Oboe doubling cor anglais
Clarinet in B flat
Bassoon
Trumpet in B flat
Euphonium
Timpani
Harp
Organ
Violin
Violoncello