This recording features Duruflé's third version of the Requiem, published in 1961, which is a reduced orchestration for singers, organ, string quintet, and optional instruments.
Composition History
Duruflé's Requiem was modeled on Fauré's Requiem, sharing similar texts, restrained approach, and specific vocal soloists, but ultimately offering something very original.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Duruflé eschewed avant-garde experimentation, choosing instead to draw inspiration from plainsong and the works of French composers like Debussy, Ravel, Fauré, and Dukas.
Recording & Production
The composer's recommendation for a string section of twenty-two players for optimum balance was followed for this recording, along with other specific instrumental choices.
Compositional Technique
The strength of Duruflé's composition lies in its fusion of plainsong, liturgical modality, subtle counterpoint, and the harmonies and scoring of Debussy, Ravel, and Dukas.
Composition History
Duruflé's Requiem was commissioned by his publishers, Durand, while he was already working on organ pieces based on plainsong from the Mass for the Dead.
Composer Biography
Maurice Duruflé, a renowned virtuoso organist, published only ten works in sixty years, reflecting his slow and meticulous compositional process.
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