Maurice Duruflé Requiem

Experience the profound and serene beauty of Maurice Duruflé's "Requiem, Op. 9" in this exquisite 2020 recording. Composed in 1947 and revised in 1961, Duruflé's Requiem is a masterful setting of the Latin Requiem Mass, drawing deeply from the Gregorian chants of the Mass for the Dead. This album, released by Leeway Music & Media, Inc., features a solo baritone, mezzo-soprano, mixed choir, and organ, capturing the essence of Duruflé's contemplative and reverent musical language.

Recorded live in the acoustically stunning Trinity College Chapel, this album offers a rich and immersive listening experience. The seven tracks, spanning 28 minutes, include iconic movements such as "Pie Jesu" and "Libera me," each performed with meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for Duruflé's original vision. The album's duration, though concise, is packed with the composer's distinctive blend of medieval melodies and modern harmonies, making it a timeless addition to any classical music collection.

Maurice Duruflé, a renowned composer and organist, was known for his self-critical nature and prolific output. His Requiem, one of his most celebrated works, has become a staple in choral repertoire since its premiere. This recording, featuring the talented Collegium Vocale Seoul, brings Duruflé's masterpiece to life with a performance that is both technically impressive and spiritually uplifting. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a deeply moving and enriching experience.

Maurice Duruflé, born in 1902 in Louviers, France, was a multifaceted musical genius known for his compositions, organ playing, and teaching. His works, though few in number, are deeply revered for their unique blend of Gregorian chant and modern harmonies. Duruflé's most celebrated piece, the Requiem, is a masterful fusion of ancient liturgical music and 20th-century compositional techniques. His musical journey began under the guidance of his father, a professional harpist, and continued at the prestigious Paris Conservatory, where he studied with notable figures like Paul Dukas and Charles Tournemire. Duruflé's influence extends beyond his compositions; he was also a respected professor at the Conservatoire de Paris, shaping the next generation of musicians. His legacy endures through his evocative choral works and organ pieces, which continue to captivate audiences with their profound emotional depth and technical brilliance.