Evensong was what brought me to St John's cathedral as an adult. Now, though, I usually only go if I'm on the roster for the evening (usually once a month). This evening, evensong was replaced - as it is every year at this time - by a requiem and commemoration of the faithful departed. I wasn't on duty tonight so this would normally find me running a long way. However, I wanted to hear the Durufle Requiem again, and just be in the congregation instead of
doing anything.
I am rather partial to this requiem. It had been many years since I'd heard it last, and I don't recall hearing it live before. Hearing it performed (is there another word for this when in the context of liturgy?) by a combined choir of St John's and St Stephen's cathedrals was really something. Those passages that need a really strong force were met with such power. And hearing a religious work in its intended setting (well, almost - not an
actual funeral) is something a CD just can't emulate.
Although it wasn't a perfect performance, I found it very moving. Not just the music, either - I was quite teary during the sermon. I'm not sure if I want to find my old recording of the requiem as there's so much tied up in that... But maybe I'll look for a new recording. And - thinking ahead - I wouldn't mind this for my funeral!
