At the same time, it succeeds in grappling with big questions of human existence, both in this life and beyond. Dramatic in parts, sublimely simple in others, tending towards opera in some ways and yet with echoes of sacred polyphony and plainsong, it is a composition of exhilarating variety. The piece was an instant triumph in all respects.Īnd yet the Requiem itself combines multifaceted musical aspects and influences, as well as containing great spiritual depth. His initial attempt to produce such a performance floundered, yet his determination eventually won through with a full performance in 1874. Verdi felt that these great figures deserved a fittingly grand commemoration. A section of the composition (‘Libera me’) was initially composed on the occasion of the death of one of Verdi’s (and Italy’s) musical heroes, Gioachino Rossini, and the piece was later completed following the death of nationally revered writer Alessandro Manzoni. A member both of Italy’s first parliament and later of the Italian Senate, his Messa da Requiem was partly motivated by political and patriotic concerns. ![]() Though most classical music fans will be more than familiar with Verdi’s status as a masterful opera composer, they may be less aware of his political involvements.
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