Faure - Requiem Op 48 Satb Vocal Score

The Faure - Requiem Op 48 Satb Vocal Score is a music book product that contains the vocal score for Gabriel Faure's Requiem. Edited by Desmond Ratcliffe, this vocal score is designed for soloists and SATB choir with piano accompaniment.

The Requiem is one of Gabriel Faure's most famous and well-known compositions, taking him approximately 20 years to complete. It consists of seven movements with a total playing time of around 35 minutes. Interestingly, Faure's personal tragedies did not motivate him to create this piece.

Unlike the standard liturgical text, Faure's Requiem omits the wrathful 'Dies Irae' and 'Tuba Mirum' and includes a lyrical 'Pie Jesu' and transcendent 'Paradisum.' This deliberate exclusion creates a calm and peaceful atmosphere with sublime vocal harmonies and heavenly melodies, deviating from the dramatic possibilities traditionally showcased by composers.

The Requiem begins softly and incorporates dynamic volume and tempo changes throughout, enhancing the solemn beauty of the voices. The interplay between the sopranos and baritones is stunning, and there are excellent opportunities for soloists that blend seamlessly with uplifting unison climaxes.

Faure himself described his work as a "lullaby of death," reflecting his belief that death is a positive transition rather than a painful experience. This sentiment is reflected in the music, which is melancholic yet not depressing, heart-wrenching but not heart-breaking.

Gabriel Faure's Requiem is widely regarded as one of the most famous and beautiful choral works ever created. The vocal score provided in this book is of great quality and accuracy, allowing performers to do justice to this masterful composition. While the Requiem is unconventional, it is not overly difficult for most choirs and is guaranteed to leave audiences speechless.

Please note that this work is a setting of the Roman Catholic Mass for the Dead, and therefore the lyrics are in Latin.