Requiem Maurice Duruflé

Maurice Duruflé's sublime Requiem, Op. 9, is a masterpiece of 20th-century French music, blending the timeless beauty of Gregorian chant with the rich sonorities of modern composition. Completed in 1947 and revised in 1961, this iconic work is a setting of the Latin Requiem for solo baritone, mezzo-soprano, mixed choir, and organ, or orchestra with organ.

On this stunning album, the Zwols Vocaal Ensemble brings Duruflé's Requiem to life with breathtaking precision and emotional depth. The ensemble's interpretation is characterised by a deep understanding of the composer's unique soundworld, which combines the simplicity and elegance of Gregorian chant with the sumptuous textures of 20th-century French music.

The album features a range of Duruflé's works, including the Requiem, Op. 9, as well as his Quatre motets sur des thèmes grégoriens in D-sharp Major, Op. 10, and the beautiful Prélude et fugue sur le nom d'Alain in D Minor, Op. 7. With its diverse and captivating tracklist, this recording is a must-listen for fans of choral music and those seeking to explore the rich and expressive world of Maurice Duruflé.

Released on 1 November 2012, this album is a testament to the enduring power and beauty of Duruflé's music, which continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world. With its perfect blend of spiritual depth and musical sophistication, Maurice Duruflé's Requiem is an unforgettable listening experience that will leave you spellbound and eager to return to its haunting beauty again and again.

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.