Donald Runnicles conducts the Duruflé Requiem
From the heights of paradise
Sir Donald Runnicles is a master concert-maker. His concerts are always fascinating combinations – and here he conducts three beautiful French masterpieces by Claude Debussy and Maurice Duruflé.
Duration
The concert will end at approximately 9pm. Latecomers might be admitted during a suitable break in the performance and will be guided to first available seats.
Pre-Concert
Join us for the pre-concert talk 45 minutes before the performance in the Northern Foyer, by Cathy-Di Zhang.
Concert Guide
Behind every great piece is a great story. Have a read through the concert guide to get all the details.
For the first time, the Sydney Symphony will perform Duruflé’s Requiem.
One of the undisputed masterpieces of the choral repertoire, it is exquisitely beautiful, and a poignant reflection on life. Allow your spirit to soar on the delicate vocal harmonies and swelling strings. Donald Runnicles has devoted his life to the idea that music can be a healing, nurturing experience and you couldn’t wish for a better guide for this ethereal, contemplative work.
Two pieces by Debussy complete this program of evocative French music. Just as Monet injected new energy and vitality into French painting, Debussy discovered bold musical gestures and brilliant orchestral colours that made for mesmerising, dream-like experiences.
Australian soprano Anna Dowsley and a female choir star in the sensual and decadent La Damoiselle élue, while that same choir transports you from gentle rolling clouds to festivities below and then to the ocean in the stunning Nocturnes. The immutable beauty of nature is drawn out of each note with unmatched nuance and subtlety.
Program
DEBUSSY
Nocturnes
La Damoiselle élue
DURUFLÉ Requiem
Artists
DONALD RUNNICLES conductor
CAMILLA TILLING soprano
ANNA DOWSLEY mezzo soprano
DAVID GRECO baritone
SYDNEY PHILHARMONIA CHOIRS
Series Presenting Partner
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