By Johannes Brahms/ German libretto by the composer, after Martin Luther's translation of Biblical texts
Mass, Orchestra Accompaniment, Conductor Score & Parts
Written between 1865-1868, EIN DEUTSCHES REQUIEM (A GERMAN REQUIEM), Op. 45 was Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) longest work. The seven movement mass sets Martin Luther's translation of Biblical text to music, with the libretto having been completed by the composer. The work premiered on February 18, 1869, at the Gewandhaus in Leipzig, Carl Reinecke conducting the Gewandhaus chorus and orchestra, with the solos sung by Emilie Bellingrath-Wagner (soprano) and Dr. Kückl (baritone). The work remains a regular part of the repertoire. Movements: 1. Selig sind, die da Leid tragen. (Matthew 5:4, Psalm CXXVI, verses 5—6); 2. Denn alles Fleisch es ist wie Gras. (1 Peter 1:24; James 5:7; 1 Peter 1:25; Isaiah 35:10); 3. Herr, lehre doch mich. (Psalm XXXIX, verses 5—8 [English verses 4—7]; Wisdom of Solomon 3:1); 4. Wie lieblich sind deine Wohnungen. (Psalm LXXXIV, verses 2,3,5 [English verses 1,2,4]); 5. Ihr habt nun Traurigkeit. (John 16:22; Ecclesiasticus 51:35 [English verse 27]; Isaiah 66:13); 6. Denn wir haben hie keine bleibende Statt. (Hebrews 13:14; 1 Corinthians 15:51—52,54—55; Revelation 4:11); 7. Selig sind die Toten. (Revelation 14:13).
Instrumentation: 2+Picc.2.2.2+CBsn(opt): 4.2.3.1: Timp: Hp(opt).Org(opt): Str (4-4-3-3-3 in set): Soli S.Bar: Mix Chor.
