John Rutter on the 'Requiem'. 3: Form and structure

In the third of a series of short films about the composition of his 'Requiem', John Rutter discusses the work's structure, the rationale underpinning his choice of Latin and English texts, and the late-night inspiration which prompted his first musical sketches for the opening movement.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• John Rutter
• Rutter
• Cambridge Singers
• Requiem
• choral
• choral singing
• composition
• choral music
• Fauré
• death
• Rutter Requiem

[alger3041]

I continue to feel that - though the composer is explaining what he was after structurally - we have to take the musical structure as it reaches us.

I am not picking up any arch apect to this work, nor do I feel any reason why I should be so obliged. With any work of music we form our own images, percieve witrh our own ears, our own mental faculties.

Sometimes these descriptions can get in the way of our own perceptions, and thus I can only accept them as a side interest.

[Alifaith]

The Agnus Dei is my favorite movement! I have actually spent so much time practicing this Requiem, I've memorized the soprano part for the whole thing. Sometimes, I'll just go and sing it for fun. It is so lovely!

[Justmeand3]

This is one of the most beautiful and peaceful feeling Requiems I have ever listened to. Thank you!