On Friday 8 November at 7.30 pm, the combined choirs of Sandford, St Philip’s and St Bartholomew’s will present a performance of Fauré’s much-loved Requiem in D minor, Op. 48. Fauré’s work sets a selection of the traditional texts from the Mass for the Dead, but unlike many settings (notably those of Mozart and Verdi) Fauré dwells not on images of hell and judgement but on heaven and consolation. The famous final movement, ‘In Paradisum’, depicts the soul welcomed into eternal rest by heavenly choirs.
This work, which will be performed between All Saints (1 November) and Remembrance Sunday (10 November), is especially appropriate for the season of remembrance. A retiring collection will be made in aid of the Alice Leahy Trust to support those affected by homelessness.