Far from being overly somber or mournful, Rutter's "Requiem" is an enchanting, rich and expressive piece.
The Minot Chamber Chorale will perform it Sunday at 3 p.m. at Ann Nicole Nelson Hall at Minot State University.
"It's accompanied by Kari Files on the organ and a small chamber ensemble," said Bob Demke, conductor. "Audrey Hugelen will be playing a clavinova, which imitates the sound of a harp, and we have flutist Elizabeth Demme, oboist Cherie Collins, cellist Julianne Boren and percussionist Avis Veikley."
Article Photos
Submitted Photo - - Soloist Mary Muhlbradt sings “Lux Aeterna” in a rehearsal for “Rutter’s Requiem.”
John Rutter completed the work, based on an adaptation of the Roman Catholic Requiem Mass, in 1985.
"We haven't done it for a number of years," Demke said. "It's really a beautiful work. There is some dissonance, which causes tension in listeners, but then it (resolves) with a great release -- it's a very euphoric composition. It's not religious, but deeply spiritual. It's what each human is seeking, but not always finding."
Because it is based on the Catholic service, some of the lyrics are in Latin, but as it also has elements of an Anglican service, some are in English as well, including the familiar Psalm 23, "The Lord is My Shepherd."
Sopranos Angela Stockman and Mary Muhlbradt will be soloists on "Pie Jesus" and "Lux Aeterna."
Besides the "Requiem," the Chamber Chorale will be singing another Rutter composition, "The Lord Bless You and Keep You" with text from the Bible, Numbers 6:24.
"You'll be able to enjoy this afternoon whether you're a connoisseur of classical music or not," Demke said. "It's less than an hour, and well worth the time for anyone."
There is no charge for the concert, but a freewill offering will be accepted to help defray expenses.