Much is known about the special and particular circumstances surrounding the composition of Mozart’s Requiem. 1791 was a tumultuous year, and before Mozart’s life was cut short at the start of December he had composed, among other works, Die Zauberflöte, La Clemenza di Tito, the Clarinet Concerto and evidently this Requiem, although it was left in an unfinished state. Complete with a new design, Glossa reinstates to the catalogue a recording which typifies the label’s endeavours as well as being a memorable reflection of the artistry of the Orchestra of the 18th Century and of its director Frans Brüggen. An extended and beautiful introduction to the principal work is created by performances of the Maurerische Trauermusik and the Adagio for two clarinets and three basset horns, before Brüggen directs a startling and impressive reading of the Requiem – including the Introit, Tract and the Offertory sung in plainchant – which has become one of the reference versions of this work, captured by NHK Television microphones in March 1998 in Japan, and which now can be enjoyed once more.
Click on any of the works listed above for alternative recordings.
