On Friday, May 10, 2024 at 7:00 PM, Arianne Abela will conduct Illumine Vocal Arts Ensemble in Johannes Brahms' ‘Ein deutsches Requiem, Op. 45’. The performance features Paige Graham, soprano; John Salvi, bass; pianists Alan C. Murchie and Larry Schipull; and timpanist Kai Glashausser.

Brahms composed A German Requiem between 1865 and 1868. Many musicologists believe he was inspired by the loss of his beloved friend Robert Schumann in 1856, and of his own dear mother in 1865.

Brahms created the piano four hands arrangement in 1869, the same year he completed his Liebeslieder Waltzes, Op. 52. As an ardent pianist who enjoyed performing piano duets with Clara Schumann, Brahms brought a remarkable degree of expressiveness to the work. Over the past few decades, his arrangement has become accepted as an independent work of genius that allows for exceptional intimacy, flexibility, precision and clarity. Pianists Alan C. Murchie and Larry Schipull will perform on Amherst College's dual Steinway grands, supplemented by timpanist Kai Glashausser.

This piece has a special place in our hearts – an ad hoc chorus performed it in 2011 with conductor Tony Thornton, as a Red Cross benefit in the wake of a devastating snowstorm, helping to lead to the formation of Illuminati.

Tickets are available online or at the door.