YCA Sings Bach and Mozart in '06

October 8, 2005

The bar has been raised for the 2006 Youth Choral Academy: to surpass the performance of Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem, the centerpiece of the YCA’s performance last July. The Requiem, a Bach motet conducted by Helmuth Riling, and the joyous gospel number John the Revelator were the highlights as the crowd in Silva Hall instantly responded with a standing ovation. Oregon Bach Festival dates for 2006 are June 30-July 16.

A requiem (meaning “rest”) is a musical setting of the liturgical text used in a mass for the dead. Written in the early 20th century, the Fauré Requiem sits among similar works by Mozart, Berlioz, and Verdi. Fauré’s Requiem is unique, however, in that the anguish and loss of Death and the Judgment Day are not touched upon. Instead, the music is tranquil, consoling, and understated, not at all out of place amid the stained glass, incense, and peacefulness of a cathedral.

The undertaking of Fauré’s Requiem is not only a milestone, but also an invaluable addition to the rich history of the Youth Choral Academy.

With this piece comes opportunities for soprano and baritone soloists. Auditions for the solo roles will take place early on in the Academy, so come ready to sing!