Requiem

Toward the end of his life, Berlioz wrote to a friend: "If I were threatened with the destruction of the whole of my works save one, I should crave mercy for the Messe des morts." The composer's magnum opus is unrivaled in its grandeur, calling for huge orchestral and choral forces -- the original performance featured an assembly of 400 singers and players. From the brass fanfares of the "Day of Judgment" to the tender strains of "Agnus Dei," it is a work of pure celestial power.

Berlioz's undeniable importance to both music history and the evolution of the art of orchestration makes a thorough study of his work essential for scholars, musicians, and music students. Attractive and affordable, this new choral score is the ideal source book of the composer's imaginative music.

Reprint of the Breitkopf Härtel, Leipzig, edition.