Known today as the Verdi Requiem, the funeral mass written by one of the greatest opera composers, has had a somewhat chequered history and was originally criticised for being “an opera in ecclesiastical vestments.” Certainly, what is required of the soloists is closer to opera than liturgical singing. The Requiem also takes the audience on an immense musical journey that demonstrates hope and despair in equal measure and is a transcendental work for many. Nowadays, performed more frequently in concert halls than in churches, its marvellous dramatic music and evocative vocal text make it a favourite with choral groups and community orchestras, who can provide the requisite huge vocal and orchestral resources required.

Soprano Natalie Aroyan. Photo © Andrew Keshan

The Brisbane Chorale, Queensland Choir and Brisbane Concert Choir combined their considerable forces, alongside the Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra, to present this work as part of the Queensland Music Festival. It must have been a massive undertaking and one in which they clearly enjoyed considerable success, such was the infectious enthusiasm in the Concert Hall and the response of an elated audience to the work.

Peter Luff, Deputy Director of Performance at the Queensland...