The Verdi Requiem ends on a C major chord that Riccardo Muti describes as pessimistic, leaving an impression of uncertainty, unlike the usual serenity associated with C major.
Composer Biography
Riccardo Muti, a southern Italian, first heard excerpts from Verdi's Requiem as a boy during Easter week, played by a 'banda' during funeral processions.
Interpretation
Riccardo Muti interprets the Verdi Requiem as a dramatic Italian communication with God, where demands are made rather than requests, and God's answer is often aggressive.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Riccardo Muti, the conductor, believes Verdi's music is important globally because it expresses essential human feelings like love, hate, and jealousy, reflecting our nature.
Recording & Production
This recording of Verdi's Messa da Requiem was captured live in Orchestra Hall at Symphony Center on January 15, 16, and 17, 2009.
Interpretation
Conductor Riccardo Muti states that playing Verdi's music teaches musicians how to sing, emphasizing that every note, even accompaniment, must be sung with expression.
Performer Biography
Riccardo Muti, a native of Naples, Italy, began his international conducting career after winning first place at the Guido Cantelli competition in 1967.
