Fauré Requiem & Langlais Messe Solennelle

Rochester Choral Society

Autumn Concert in Rochester Cathedral

Rochester’s magnificent Norman Cathedral provides the perfect setting for two very different sacred, choral works by French composers. The dark harmonies of the Messe Solennelle by Jean Langlais (1907 – 1991) contain echoes of ancient plainsong, updated with a chromatic turbulence which reflects its composition at the end of World War II. In a dramatic dialogue, the choir is almost overwhelmed by powerful responses from the cathedral organ and the closing “Dona nobis Pacem” is an urgent plea for peace. A complete contrast is provided by the beautiful harmonies and consolatory tone of the enduringly popular Requiem by Gabriel Fauré (1845 – 1924), which was described by the composer as “dominated from beginning to end by a very human feeling of faith in eternal rest.” Rochester Choral Society will be accompanied by an orchestral ensemble and conducted by their Musical Director, Scott Farrell.