Berlioz Requiem Moments

Let me talk about some moments in the Requiem.

Berlioz wrote some pretty heavy moments.  I'm going to try to decipher what a few of my favorite moments are at this point in my studies, which is just the beginning.

I love the first tenor entrance.  How difficult is that to keep in tune? (rhetorical question)  I love every time that motif comes back.

To do this piece, the men have to rock.  Truly rock.

I love the opening theme of the Dies irae.  It comes back often throughout the Requiem, but I like it.  I am sure I will learn more about the motif soon- especially because I'm about to embark on the research portion of the Requiem.

Then the four brass bands!  What a bombastic but thrilling touch!

So far, the theme that is the most likely to get stuck in my head is the Lacrymosa.  Even typing that makes me want to hum it.

And finally, my cheap Dover score says that the tenor solo is optional.  No, it is not.  The Sanctus creates the beauty of this Requiem.  The Sanctus is the place where the tears of beauty happen.  It is so beautiful.  The first time I heard it (when I was studying for my comp exam), I stopped what I was doing and just listened.  I breathed in the Sanctus.  Beautiful tenor solo.

Those are the moments.  This is a huge piece.