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Egmont Overture
by Beethoven
(written 1809-1810) Samples incidental music he wrote for a theatre production of Goethe’s play of the same name. Beethoven was much attracted to the heroic ideology of those who dare much against repressive forces. In this play, the hero, Count Egmont, struggles for Dutch liberty from oppressive Spanish rule and is martyred in the cause. Beethoven’s music vividly portrays the drama and heroism involved.
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Pilgrims' Hymn
by Paulus
From his one-act opera The Three Hermits (written 1997), based on a short story by Tolstoy about three holy men living alone on a remote island and a visitor’s attempt to instruct them. The text portrays faith and trust in a loving God in the face of trials and darkness.
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Requiem
by Rutter
Meggie Vincent, Soprano Soloist
Jerry Van Wie, Cello Soloist
Requiem does not strictly follow the conventional Catholic liturgy but combines text from parts of the traditional Latin requiem mass (a service held for the souls of the dead) with psalms and verses in English from The Book of Common Prayer. It debuted in 1985 and quickly became a favorite of choirs and orchestras everywhere. The music beautifully conveys an overarching feeling of hope, optimism, and comfort to offset the necessary moments of darkness. It was widely performed in the U.S. after the tragic events of 9/11.