Re: Berlioz Requiem - who's played it?


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Posted by Richard on November 06, 2001 at 23:55:34:

In Reply to: Berlioz Requiem - who's played it? posted by Dale on November 06, 2001 at 20:53:42:

Berlioz Requiem calls for four brass bands to be placed antiphonally in the performance space. Two of the bands call for tubas. One for two, the other for four, but in all cases of brass band instrumentation of this piece, it's double what the part writing requires. The two can be handled by one, and the four, by two, which is how it's usually done. The most action is in Band #4, where it's two part writing, and a lot to play. Lacrymosa is the last big movement for the bands. After that, it's trombones playing pedals against flutes, and some tuba writing which works best if you can join the back row of the orchestra. On three different occasions of performing this piece, this was never a problem for me. First is the Offertorium with a beautiful soaring line, very rangy. Then there's Sanctus with a great thumping bass line that goes on for days. This too is rangy, and this entire piece would be best on E flat or F.

Berlioz Requiem does not provide the usual orchestral tuba gratifications. It's scoring and ensemble challenges are unique. Treads a fine line between annoyance and ecstasy. But it is a great and historic work. Enjoy it.


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