Requiem in D Minor, Op. 48
Gabriel Faure
Work background
Researched classical background
Faure's Requiem developed through successive versions rather than appearing as one fixed orchestral score. Its restrained choral writing and prominent solo passages emphasize repose, while the final In paradisum looks beyond the burial service toward consolation. The earliest performances used a comparatively small ensemble with organ. Chamber and symphonic versions therefore differ in color as well as size.
A listening guide
Compare the choir's quiet sustained writing with the more exposed solo movements and the final movement's lighter texture.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Soprano and baritone soloists, choir, organ, and instrumental ensemble or orchestra
Composition: 1887-1893 (main versions); expanded orchestration 1900
Some material originated in 1877. The first partial performance was in 1888, followed by an expanded seven-movement form and later symphonic scoring.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Date, title and version notes
Version and orchestration must be specified; early and symphonic forms are not identical.
No particular bereavement is asserted as the sole inspiration.
Notice de titre musical "[Requiem. Op. 48]" | Accueil | Catalogue general | BnF- Bibliotheque nationale de France
Library work authority: stages of Faure Requiem composition, partial and complete premieres, and the 1900 symphonic scoring. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Information for programme note writers | John Rutter
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Notice de titre musical "[Requiem. Op. 48]" | Accueil | Catalogue general | BnF- Bibliotheque nationale de France
Library work authority: stages of Faure Requiem composition, partial and complete premieres, and the 1900 symphonic scoring. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Information for programme note writers | John Rutter
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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