‘Opera in ecclesiastical dress’ from Verdi

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A wonderful evening spent with friends in London’s Royal Albert Hall, listening to what the music critic Hans Van Bulow described as “opera in ecclesiastical dress”. It’s a fabulous composition, performed perfectly by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

With maestro Michael Shapiro

This is an intense musical work of genius, with four soloist and a huge chorus alongside the mighty RPO. As critics discuss the value of Verdi’s interpretation of the Requiem Mass, it’s impossible to dispel the impression of greatness and human emotion.

For me, the RPO represents culture after the Second World War (it was founded in 1946 by he great conductor Sir Thomas Beecham) and as we all move further into the 21st century, this production is part of their ‘Icons Rediscovered’ series which is well worth exploring, whether you know some of the works to be performed or not. 

Location: Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP, UK

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