Details

Benjamin Britten's War Requiem was composed in 1961 for the consecration of Coventry Cathedral - newly rebuilt following its destruction in the Second World War. Britten took as his inspiration the words of young English war poet, Wilfred Owen, himself killed in action on 4 November 1918, just days before the armistice. The War Requiem profoundly weaves together nine of Owen's most poignant poems including Anthem for Doomed Youth, Futility and Strange Meeting, with the traditional Latin mass. With text taken from the Requiem Mass and poems by Wilfred Owen, this great commemorative war elegy was first performed in Coventry Cathedral on 30 May 1962 to great critical and popular acclaim.

Cast/Performers

Marina Mescheriakova (soprano), Ian Bostridge (tenor - English Soldier), Thomas Hampson (baritone - German Soldier)

Creatives/Company

Music: Benjamin Britten
Company(s): Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, The Royal Opera Chorus
Conductor: Bernard Haitink