Brahms' Requiem

Johannes Brahms' German Requiem is being presented again at the Protestant church in Haguenau.

Unlike the traditional Latin requiem mass, this work is composed in German and is distinguished by its humanist approach. Brahms explores comfort and reflection on the human experience rather than themes of the afterlife or divine judgment.

Composed between 1865 and 1868, the work was deeply influenced by the death of the composer's mother.

Structured in seven movements, it combines rich orchestration with powerful choral writing, relying mainly on biblical texts selected by Brahms himself.

The focus is on universal themes such as suffering, hope, and consolation, rather than specific dogmas. The performance will be given by Hortus Musicalis, conducted by Jean-Luc Iffrig, in a version for choir accompanied by romantic piano, art harmonium, and timpani.