Britten's War Requiem

Sat 21 Mar 2009 7:00pm at Symphony Hall

Simon Keenlyside by Uwe Arens

The War requiem is one of Britten’s most powerful works, born out of his fiercely held pacifism. Composed at the height of the Cold War, it spoke directly to a nation living under the threat of nuclear war. The work mixes powerful settings of the poems of Wilfred Owen, describing the horrors of war, with the words of the Requiem mass, and ultimately offers the hope of reconciliation. No tenor is more associated with Britten’s music at the moment than Ian Bostridge, heard here alongside the warm baritone of Simon Keenlyside and leading young soprano Emma Bell.

BBC music magazine’s editor, Oliver Condy, explains why he has recommended tonight’s concert:
“This unsettling work is a powerful anti-war oratorio, written for the re-consecration of nearby Coventry Cathedral in 1962. Bringing this searing piece to life are three of the most gifted British singers alive today accompanied by Covent Garden’s orchestra – an ensemble currently at the height of its powers. This will be a highly emotional, haunting concert – full of drama and pathos.”

BBC Music Magazine

5.45pm pre-concert talk

Tickets £5-£50

The Royal Opera Chorus
The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House
Antonio Pappano conductor
Emma Bell soprano
Ian Bostridge tenor
Simon Keenlyside baritone
Tiffin Boys’ Choir

Britten War Requiem 90’

Book Tickets

Download Calendar File

Email this page to a friend