Brahms’s Ein deutsches Requiem charts a journey through grief to hope, in music that has brought solace to generations of listeners.
Brahms chose to set his own selection of passages from the Bible in this work. His message is one of steadfast faith, and comfort and compassion. Balancing movements for the full chorus and orchestra with beautiful solos for baritone and soprano, the work culminates in a magnificent choral fugue.
The music of trailblazing American composer Amy Beach owes much to Brahms. The Canticle of the Sun sets a prayer by St Francis of Assisi and Beach’s music brings St Francis’s timeless words vividly to life, invoking God’s blessing on ‘Brother Sun and Sister Moon’, the Earth and all God’s creatures.
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Solemn Prelude was commissioned for the Three Choirs Festival in 1899, premiered to critical and audience acclaim – and then lost. In 2021 the original score was tracked down in the British Library, and the Philharmonia gave the work its long-overdue second performance. Brahms’ influence can again be heard in this lush Romantic work, which leavens the solemnity of its title with gorgeous long-breathed melodies.
This concert marks the start of David Hill’s 25th season as our Musical Director. We are regular partners with the Philharmonia Orchestra, filling the Royal Festival Hall with our ‘electrifying… inspirational music making’ (Bachtrack).
We’re pleased to offer a group booking discount for this concert of 15% for those buying 6-9 tickets, 25% for those buying 10 or more tickets and 25% plus one free ticket for those buying 20 or more tickets. Schools can also benefit from a 50% discount when bringing 10 or more students. To redeem these discounts, contact the Southbank Centre by phone/email using the contact details here
