In continuation of Santa Clara Chorale’s 61st season of Masterworks Rediscovered, the Chorale presents one of the most cherished gems of choral repertoire and one of Johannes Brahms’ most remarkable achievements — his Requiem. The concert will feature Brahms’ own arrangement of the work which replaces the orchestra with a rarely performed, more intimate accompaniment of piano four-hands — and spotlights soprano Aléxa Anderson and baritone Timothy Murray.
Ein Deutsches Requiem is a monumental choral composition that stands as one of the most revered and emotionally profound choral works of all time. Through its beautiful setting of passages from the German Lutheran Bible, the piece exudes comfort, solace, and the human experiences of grief and consolation—traveling on an emotive trajectory from suffering to acceptance. The music traverses a wide emotional spectrum, from moments of serene tranquility to moments of intense drama and anguish, inviting listeners on a deeply personal and spiritual journey.
This unique performance of the masterpiece explores Brahms’ own arrangement for chorus, soloists, and one piano four-hands—two pianists at the bench of one piano—offering audiences a rarely intimate presentation of a work that is at its core intimate and personal. Featuring breathtaking solos by soprano Aléxa Anderson and baritone Timothy Murray, the performance also spotlights Nancy Whitecar and the Chorale’s Staff Pianist Dan Cromeenes at the piano together.
Accompanied by the pristine acoustic and visual beauty of Mission Santa Clara, the evening will serve as an extraordinary opportunity to experience Brahms’ choral gem.