The Book of Requiems, 1550-1650: From the Earliest Ages to the Present Period

The Book of Requiems is a comprehensive collection of essays on the most important works in the Requiem mass for the dead tradition, from its origins to the present day. It is an authoritative reference publication for musicologists, music theorists, and performers, and the second volume in the series covers settings composed between 1550 and 1650.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 12 July 2023
Publisher: Leuven University Press

Few Western musical repertories capture the imagination more profoundly than the Requiem Mass for the Dead. Yet, surprisingly, despite the significance of Requiem settings for our musical culture, the literature concerning them is sparse. The Book of Requiems presents a comprehensive collection of essays on the most important works in this tradition, spanning from its origins to the present day. Each chapter is dedicated to a specific Requiem, providing a wealth of historical information and a detailed analysis of the composition. Conceived as a multi-volume essay collection by leading experts, The Book of Requiems serves as an authoritative reference publication, intended as a first port of call for musicologists, music theorists, and performers, both professional and student.

The present volume, the second in the series, focuses on settings composed between c. 1550 and c. 1650, a period during which the Requiem emerges as a defining feature of the soundscape of Catholic death rituals. This volume represents a significant contribution to the field, offering insights into the evolution and development of Requiem compositions during this crucial period.

Contributors to The Book of Requiems include renowned scholars and experts from various universities and institutions. Pieter Berge (University of Leuven), Franz Koerndle (University of Augsburg), Christian Thomas Leitmeir (University of Oxford), Alison Sanders McFarland (Louisiana State University), Bernadette Nelson (CESEM-FCSH, Nova University, Lisbon), Owen Rees (University of Oxford), and Stephen Rice (director of The Brabant Ensemble) are among the distinguished authors who have contributed their expertise to this project.

The book is organized into chapters, each dedicated to a specific Requiem. Within each chapter, readers are provided with a comprehensive historical background, exploring the origins and development of the Requiem genre. The authors then delve into the composition of individual Requiems, discussing their musical structure, themes, and influences. Detailed analysis of the musical elements, such as orchestration, harmonies, and vocal arrangements, is provided, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the artistic choices made by composers.

In addition to the scholarly content, The Book of Requiems includes photographs, illustrations, and musical examples, enhancing the reader's experience and providing visual cues to the discussed compositions. This visual element adds to the overall appeal and accessibility of the book, making it an invaluable resource for music enthusiasts, students, and scholars alike.

As mentioned earlier, more volumes in the series are planned to be released in the future. The Book of Requiems aims to become a comprehensive and authoritative reference publication on the Requiem genre, covering a wide range of compositions and periods. By presenting a diverse range of perspectives and insights, the book seeks to deepen our understanding and appreciation of this important musical tradition.

In conclusion, The Book of Requiems is a groundbreaking work that fills a significant gap in the literature on Requiem settings. With its comprehensive coverage, scholarly insights, and visual elements, this book offers a valuable resource for musicologists, music theorists, performers, and anyone interested in exploring the rich and diverse world of Requiem compositions. We eagerly anticipate the release of future volumes in this series and the continued contributions of the distinguished contributors.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789462703711