Portland Opera: Verdi’s Requiem at Keller Auditorium

An eruption, a yearning, a prayer, a release

Anyone who has ever heard Giuseppe Verdi’s iconic Messa da Requiem or experienced a live performance of it before, will agree that works that can match the sheer musical force and intensity are few and far between. The Requiem is usually performed in a concert-like setting instead of a liturgical setting, due to the fact that Verdi breathed new life into the traditional funeral mass structure by employing some operatic techniques - and the result is nothing short of magnificent. Since its premiere in 1874, Verdi’s Requiem grew in popularity to the extent that it is now the second-most frequently performed choral work, hot on the heels of Mozart’s Requiem.

The Verdi Requiem is an emotional experience that goes way deeper than anything else. From the emotionally sincere Rex Tremendae that evokes profound reflection to the explosive, impactful, and beloved Dies Irae; from the stunning, mournful moments and incredible beauty of the acappella sections in the Lacrymosa to the joyous fugue and choral strength of the Sanctus; and then also the Libera Me that leaves every audience that hears it with a feeling of catharsis, the Requiem does not address grief as something personal, but rather something that is felt and experienced by the masses. It unashamedly rips the “mask of politeness and beauty” off of grief, showing an open, bleeding wound that unnerves, erupts, and unsettles - grief in its truest, most honest, and raw form.   

Portland Opera Orchestra and Chorus

Verdi’s Requiem is set to be performed for one night only by the entirety of the Portland Opera Orchestra and Chorus, with featured soloists, under the masterful baton of Damien Geter. Audiences can expect to be completely blown away by the dramatic and incredibly powerful work, drenched in beauty and passion, and delivered to perfection by one of the nation’s most revered operatic companies.

Giuseppe Verdi’s Messa da Requiem is a must-see for any and all music lovers. 

The Keller Auditorium

Keller Auditorium is without a doubt one of the nation’s favorite venues, and it is little wonder, because apart from its exceptional line-up of world-class acts every year, the venue also boasts a historic charm, state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment, fantastic amenities that cater for every want and need, superb sight-lines, and impeccable acoustics. The Keller Auditorium features luxurious seating for up to 2,992 music lovers, spread across an orchestra level, centre box seats, and two balconies. 

Portland, this is the one musical experience that you can’t afford to miss - so go ahead, get your tickets now!