Britten’s very personal, very forceful response to a century of violence.

Britten’s War Requiem is a profoundly moving, sometimes savage indictment of war. A lifelong pacifist, Britten aimed to articulate his horror and grief at the losses caused by two world wars. But he also hoped for some kind of unity. At the work’s premiere he deliberately chose soloists from countries that suffered in World War II: Germany, Russia, and Britain. The same nationalities are represented in this concert by three exceptional singers. Kazuki Yamada leads the huge forces required for this monumental piece: symphony orchestra, chamber orchestra, full choir, children’s choir, and solo singers, which all combine in the final bar – a plea for our shared humanity, and for peace. Fifty years after Britten’s death we still hope for the same.

This concert is generously supported by David and Sandra Burbidge.