Durufle Requiem

Join Résonance and the First United Methodist Chancel Choir for an evening that bridges the ancient and the modern, moving from the soaring heights of virtuoso organ music to a quiet, shimmering vision of peace.

ARTISTS

A. Barron Breland, conductor

Mark Kurtz, organ and collaborative pianist

Jamie Luedtke, mezzo-soprano

Jesse Wohlman, baritone

Résonance

with

First United Methodist Chancel Choir

Mark Kurtz, director

Marie Meyers, collaborative pianist

PROGRAM

MARCEL DUPRE: Prelude and Fugue in B major

MARK KURTZ: Praise to God from Symphony of Psalms

MAURICE DURUFLE: Requiem, Op. 9

COPLAND: The Promise of Living

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

We open the evening by unveiling the full brilliance of the recently refurbished Quimby organ with Marcel Dupré’s Prelude and Fugue in B Major. A masterwork of French virtuosity, this piece was written by Duruflé’s own teacher and serves as the ultimate test for the instrument’s 3,599 pipes. From its toccata-like shimmering chords to its complex, dancing fugue, the Dupré showcases the organ’s symphonic warmth and the brilliant, copper Trompette-en-chamade.

Unlike more dramatic settings of the Latin mass, Duruflé emphasizes peace and solace. It is a profound and deeply moving work that offers a contemplative interpretation of the tradition, creating an atmosphere that offers comfort rather than terror. In this intimate "organ version" with the voices of Résonance, blending into a single, breathing entity, perfectly matched to the "symphonic warmth" of the refurbished Quimby organ.

To conclude our journey, we return to a work that has become a cornerstone of our season – Aaron Copland’s quintessential American anthem, 'The Promise of Living.' Its return offers a deeper resonance; this celebratory finale transforms spiritual peace into a visceral, communal vision of shared labor and hope—a stirring reminder that the 'blessings of harvest' are found in our love for one another.

TICKETS

Tickets start at $10. Those with Student ID are FREE.

Generous and accessible FREE parking is available!

*Arrive early for preconcert activities – including a tour of the new organ and featured speakers.

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