Durufle: Requiem Op. 9 / Fauré: Requiem, Op. 48

No 20th-century work has so successfully embodied an atmosphere of timeless spirituality as Duruflé's Requiem has. It inhabits a sonic world far removed from any specific place in the musical ages--its contemporary harmonic aura is tempered with ancient chant melodies and modes that effectively suspend the work in an accessible yet ethereal space. In the light of this unique context, the revered Latin texts receive a renewed vitality and meaning. In contrast, Fauré's setting is far more traditional, but in this greater conventionality can be found an uplifting and reassuring beauty that brings us to that same point of peaceful comfort at music's end. Of course, the Sanctus is among the most sublime creations in the choral repertoire, and the Pie Jesu is one of the most beloved and frequently sung movements of any piece of church music. This recording of the Fauré uses the 1893 version edited by John Rutter. --David Vernier