Arts Event

Alternately castigated as "an opera in ecclesiastical robes", and lauded as "one of the most awe-inspiring works ever composed", since its first performance in 1874, Verdi's Grand Requiem Mass has brought both terror and solace to believers. It was performed around the world to mourn the victims of the bombing of the World Trade Towers; to grieve the horrific devastation of the Fukushima nuclear disaster; and by courageous prisoners held in captivity in the WWII concentration camp at Terezin. Verdi's visceral rhythmic drive, sublime melodies, and dramatic contrasts express the intense emotions engendered by man's dread of consuming hellfire and his hope of an eternal paradise.