“MASSterworks” Series – Music at St. Michael

In 2022, as we commemorated the 60th Anniversary of the Casavant Organ of St. Bernard Church, we began the tradition of offering a semiannual “MASSterwork”; a robust sacred music composition offered in its original intended setting, in the context of Holy Mass. We hope that you will join us for our upcoming event, either by singing in the choir, or by attending the First Friday Mass as we explore the rich treasures of our Roman Catholic faith.

Maurice Duruflé

Requiem, Op. 9

Composer, organist, and teacher Maurice Duruflé (1902–1986) is remembered above all for his relatively small but exceptionally refined body of sacred and organ music, with the Requiem, Op. 9 standing as his most celebrated work. Born in Louviers, France, Duruflé received his early musical training at the choir school of Rouen Cathedral before entering the Paris Conservatoire, where he distinguished himself in organ, harmony, counterpoint, and composition. He later became organist of the Church of Saint-Étienne-du-Mont in Paris, a position he held for much of his life, while also teaching at the Paris Conservatoire. Completed in 1947, Duruflé’s Requiem draws its melodic foundation from the Gregorian chants of the Mass for the Dead, which he clothed in the rich harmonies and luminous colors of twentieth-century French music. Rather than emphasizing the terror and drama of the Last Judgment, the work is marked by restraint, prayerfulness, and a profound sense of peace. Movements such as the tender “Pie Jesu,” the radiant “Sanctus,” and the transcendent “In Paradisum” give the Requiem its distinctive atmosphere of consolation and eternal rest, making it one of the most beloved sacred choral works of the twentieth century.

Singers are invited to join Director of Music, Chaz Bowers, and internationally acclaimed organist, J. Christopher Pardini, in presenting this profound work in the very setting for which it was conceived—the solemn celebration of the Holy Mass. Accompanied by chamber orchestra, the Requiem will be offered at the First Friday Mass on November 6, 2026. To prepare, rehearsals will be held at St. Bernard Church, 311 Washington Road, on Thursday, October 29 from 7:00-8:00pm; as well as Tuesday, November 3 and Thursday, November 5 from 7:00–9:00 p.m. [The St. Cecilia Choir of St. Michael the Archangel Parish will be rehearsing this work weekly on Thursday evenings so additional times can be made known to singers wanting to attend.] Choristers are asked to make every effort to attend both rehearsals the week of the Mass. Because of the musical demands and the need for balance within the ensemble, any absences should be discussed with the conductor in advance. Scores will be provided at no cost. We encourage you to register today and join us for this beautiful liturgical celebration.

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