Schaumburg Youth Symphony and Schaumburg Choral Artists to perform Rutter's 'Requiem' Oct. 22

The Schaumburg Youth Symphony Orchestra, with director Kevan Kosobayashi, joins forces with the Schaumburg Choral Artists, directed by Tim Koll, to present John Rutter's "Requiem" at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 22, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts.

British composer John Rutter completed his Requiem for chorus and orchestra in 1985. The seven-movement work, centered around text from the Latin Requiem Mass, includes sections based on English biblical verses.

Rutter's style, influenced by 20th century English and French choral compositions as well as American songwriting, has been hailed by the London Evening Standard, saying "For the infectiousness of his melodic invention and consummate craftsmanship, Rutter has few peers."

Rutter himself alludes to the pastoral nature of the Requiem, comparing it more to Fauré than Verdi. Describing the work, Rutter says, "It is intimate rather than grand, contemplative and lyric rather than dramatic, consolatory rather than grim, approachable rather than exclusive."

For Tim Koll, who directs the 43-member Schaumburg Choral Artists, says that while some major works can be a grueling marathon to perform, "Rutter's Requiem is an absolute joy to sing. What stands out to me about Rutter's Requiem is the gorgeous melodic material," says Koll. "The writing of these lines is so beautifully written for the voice, that it feels just as amazing to sing the melodies as it does to sit in the audience and listen."

Symphony Orchestra director Kevan Kosobayashi says the Requiem is a fitting work for the harmonic merging of orchestra and choir. "The communal nature of the requiem mass, to remember and repose the souls of the dead, seems most fitting when utilizing the combined efforts of vocal and instrumental musicians," says Kosobayashi.

The performance of the Requiem in Schaumburg is a rare opportunity to hear the work, given the demanding resources required to present a symphonic choral work. Fortunately, Schaumburg's Department of Cultural Services (housed in the Prairie Center), operates robust orchestra and choral programs. "We're lucky to have the support of the village and community members to make concerts like this possible for the public," says Cultural Services Director Tiana Weiler.

The one-hour program will be rounded out with an orchestra performance of the first suite The Wand of Youth by Elgar.

Tickets for the Rutter Requiem, $15 ($10 for students and seniors) can be ordered at www.prairiecenter.org or by calling (847) 895-3600. The Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts is located at 201 Schaumburg Court, in Schaumburg, IL.

The Schaumburg Youth Orchestra and Schaumburg Choral Artists are programs of the Village of Schaumburg.