Mozart Requiem, Dvorak Mass in D on Master Singers program

Chicago Master Singers, with the Ars Viva Orchestra under the direction of Alan Heatherington, will feature Mozart's Requiem Mass in D minor and Dvorak's Mass in D on its November concert program at Divine Word Chapel in Techny.

The concerts are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, and 7 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 9.

The Mozart Requiem is among the world's best-loved classics and an audience favorite at many previous CMS concerts. This powerful and moving work gained popularity with today's audiences after being featured prominently in Peter Shaffer's play and feature film, "Amadeus."

It was among Mozart's last works, left unfinished at his death but ably completed by his pupil, Robert Sussmayr.

Also on the program is Dvorak's Mass in D, first composed for organ and small choir but later expanded for orchestra and large chorus. Having performed the organ version on two previous occasions, CMS is pleased to present the full orchestral version with its brilliant and colorful score, filled with beautiful moments that hint of the fields and hills of Dvorak's native Bohemia.

A quartet of the Chicago area's leading vocal soloists will perform with CMS in the fall concert. They are Michelle Areyzaga, soprano; Sarah Holman, mezzo soprano; Peder Reiff, tenor; and Gerard Sundburg, bass/baritone. A free preconcert lecture will be presented by music critic Dorothy Andries one hour before each performance.

Individual tickets are $15-$48. Tickets and season subscriptions can be purchased online at www.chicagomastersingers.org or by calling toll-free (800) 595-4TIX (595-4849), or at the door.