Philharmonia Orchestra London & The Bach Choir: A German Requiem

About the Event

Immerse yourself in the stunning architecture of London's breathtaking Southbank Centre for the ultimate concert set to awake your understanding of classical music.


Brahms's German Requiem elegantly traces the passage from sorrow to optimism, providing generations with musical consolation. Distinctly, Brahms opted for a personalized selection of biblical verses instead of the traditional Latin Requiem Mass. This portrays an unwavering faith, extending warmth and empathy to those in mourning. The composition, a blend of harmonious movements for the full chorus and orchestra, coupled with enchanting solos for baritone and soprano, culminates in a sublime choral fugue.

Preceding Brahms's magnum opus is The Canticle of the Sun by the pioneering American composer, Amy Beach (1867 – 1944), which breathes life into St Francis of Assisi's prayer. Beach's musical rendition brilliantly captures St. Francis's enduring prose, invoking divine grace for 'Brother Sun and Sister Moon,' Earth, and all divine entities.

The Solemn Prelude by Samuel Coleridge‐Taylor had its moment in the spotlight at the Three Choirs Festival in 1899, garnering praise from critics and audiences alike. However, it mysteriously vanished. Its rediscovery in 2021 within the British Library led to a much‐anticipated encore by the Philharmonia. The piece is a rich Romantic composition, tempering its earnest name with stunning, expansive melodies.

Joining forces routinely, The Bach Choir and the Philharmonia Orchestra transform the Royal Festival Hall with their 'electrifying… inspirational music‐making' as cited by Bachtrack.