We have a collection of 33 arrangements for Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Requiem in D minor, K.626: Lacrimosa
Who completed Mozart's Lacrimosa after his death? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: The Prodigy Who Defined Classical Music
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Requiem in D minor, K. 626, is one of his most famous and mysterious compositions. Here are some interesting facts about this masterpiece:
Mysterious Commission: Mozart received the commission to compose the Requiem in 1791 from an anonymous patron. This mysterious patron turned out to be Count Franz von Walsegg, who wanted to pass the composition off as his own to honor his deceased wife.
Incomplete Masterpiece: Mozart died on December 5, 1791, before completing the Requiem. He left behind only the Introitus (Requiem aeternam) and Kyrie in a complete state, and parts of the Dies Irae, Tuba Mirum, and Lacrimosa. The rest of the composition was completed by his student and friend, Franz Xaver Süssmayr, based on Mozart's notes and sketches.
Myths and Legends: Mozart's death and the unfinished nature of the Requiem have given rise to many myths and legends. The story of Mozart believing he was composing his own requiem due to a premonition of his own death is not supported by historical evidence.
Mysterious Mass for the Dead: A requiem is a Roman Catholic mass for the dead. Mozart's Requiem is known for its dark and somber tone, which adds to the mysterious and eerie aura surrounding it.
Instrumentation: The Requiem is scored for a full orchestra, SATB soloists (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass), and a mixed choir. It features prominent use of the trombone, which adds to its dramatic and solemn character.
Text and Structure: The Requiem Mass text is divided into several sections, including the Introitus (Requiem aeternam), Kyrie, Dies Irae, Tuba Mirum, Rex Tremendae, Recordare, Confutatis, Lacrimosa, Domine Jesu, Hostias, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. Each section conveys different emotions and themes related to death and salvation.
Conspiracies and Theories: Due to the mystery surrounding the Requiem and its commission, there have been various conspiracy theories and speculations about Mozart's death and the identity of the anonymous patron. Some even suggested that composing the Requiem led to Mozart's death.
Legacy: Despite its incomplete state, Mozart's Requiem is considered one of his greatest works. It has been widely performed and recorded by many renowned musicians and orchestras. The music's powerful and emotional impact continues to captivate audiences around the world.
Adaptations and Popularity: The Requiem has been adapted and featured in various forms of media, including movies, TV shows, and video games. Its iconic and dramatic motifs have made it a symbol of dramatic tension and impending doom in popular culture.
Speculations on the Unfinished Parts: Mozart's original intentions for the unfinished sections of the Requiem have been a subject of debate and speculation among musicologists and composers. Many have attempted to reconstruct and complete the work in their own ways, but Süssmayr's version remains the most widely performed.
Mozart's Requiem in D minor, K. 626, stands as a testament to his genius and continues to intrigue and inspire musicians and audiences alike with its haunting beauty and enigmatic history.