description Requiem (Rutter) Overview
John Rutter's Requiem, completed in 1985, is a sacred choral work for soprano soloist, mixed chorus, and either chamber ensemble or orchestra. Its seven movements combine portions of the traditional Latin Requiem Mass with English biblical texts from the Anglican tradition, including Psalm 130 and Psalm 23. The work emphasizes consolation and remembrance through lyrical melodies, restrained orchestration, and prominent writing for solo cello and oboe.
help Requiem (Rutter) FAQ
What texts did John Rutter use to compose his Requiem?
John Rutter's Requiem combines portions of the traditional Latin Requiem Mass with English biblical texts from the Anglican tradition. The composer completed this seven-movement choral work in 1985.
What is the standard instrumentation for John Rutter's Requiem?
The piece was originally written for soprano soloist, mixed chorus, and a chamber ensemble, though a full orchestral version also exists. The chamber instrumentation includes parts for specific instruments like the oboe, cello, and harp.
Why did John Rutter write a Requiem mass?
English composer John Rutter wrote the Requiem in 1985, partly in memory of his own father. The work stands out for its accessible, lyrical, and comforting musical style compared to more bombastic settings of the mass.
How long does a typical performance of Rutter's Requiem last?
The piece is intended to be a compact work, taking about 35 to 40 minutes to perform in its entirety. It consists of seven distinct movements, including the well-known Pie Jesu and Lux Aeterna.
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