Requiem Aeternam: Fauré & Michael Haydn

York Musical Society

York Musical Society presents two requiems in one concert, but separated by over 100 years and very different in style.

Gabriel Fauré’s well-loved Requiem, composed in 1890, uses a shortened version of the funeral mass. The focus is on eternal rest and consolation.

Michael Haydn is the lesser-known younger brother of Josef Haydn. He composed his Requiem in 1771. Less frequently performed, it is exquisite and is said to have inspired Mozart’s Requiem.

Conductor David Pipe notes that even in rehearsal, it is fascinating to hear how these two works, using much of the same liturgical text but separated by over 100 years, are so very different in style and musical content.  This is an unusual opportunity to savour the contrasting responses of two fine composers.

YMS chorus and orchestra will be joined by soloists Brittany King (soprano), Marie Elliott (mezzo-soprano), Robert Anthony Gardner (tenor), Felix Kemp (bass).

Tickets are available through York Theatre Royal box office (01904 623568; www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk) or on the door on the night.