Star-Ledger praises ‘poignant’ Verdi Requiem performance

The Star-Ledger writes:

From the first notes, the rendition effectively conveyed the work’s gravitas, with deep, rich, weighty sound in the opening halting chords that created a feeling of being stunned by divine power and mortality.

The chorus’ strong bass voices anchored the “Te Decet Hymnus” and, as all voices joined in, the pull of dissonant harmonies created a mournful effect. A peaceful, majestic quality settled as the solo quartet and chorus sang “Christe Eleison,” but timpani rumbled ominously even as a major chord of resolution resounded.

...

The chorus’ rhythmic precision and clear articulation were especially valuable assets in the dynamic “Rex tremendae,” leading into the pure-toned, beseeching words “salva me.” The innocence of their simple, arching phrases provided a stark contrast to the harshness that followed as the orchestra seethed.

...

[Soprano Marianne Fiset], the chorus and the orchestra mustered a shattering final climactic outpouring of sound evoking the cosmic before returning to a simple, unison chant, taking the work touchingly back to a humble, human realm.

Read the full review at nj.com.