I first encountered the Faure Requiem by singing it in high school. I enjoyed the experience, but had little to compare it to, musically or artistically. I have since then acquired a little more knowledge and perspective. Faure's vocal writing is subtle, melodic, and can be rapturous, as witnessed by his art songs (and I sang my share in college and afterward). The requiem has a quiet lyricism, as opposed to the works by Mozart, Berlioz or Verdi. I would like to think that maybe death is more in Faure's view than the angst of the other works. If I want to be swept away by overcharged emotionalism and dramatic writing for huge forces, I turn to the Verdi. It always makes me want to weep, for it conjures up Man's deepest fears and longings. The Faure is gentle, lulling, and breathtaking in its simplicity. It also makes me want to weep, for it suggests hope and peace. If you have never heard this work, you owe yourself this experience. If you know this work, this is a beautiful recording. I've been listening to it since its first release and have yet to tire of it.
