MARGRATEN REQUIEM

 

On Sunday 10 September, for the very first time, a concert performance was given at the American cemetery of Margraten. At the initiative of the Margraten town council and with support from various parties, including the province of Limburg, the Limburg Symphony Orchestra (LSO) gave a performance of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s ‘Requiem’. The performance was intended to honor all those who sacrificed their lives for peace.

 

The idea for this concert was born on the occasion of President Bush's visit to the cemetery on 8 May 2005. The plans for the concert were finalized only after it became absolutely clear that the serene atmosphere of the cemetery would not be disturbed and that all members of the public would be welcome with no limitations. The LSO was directed by conductor Enrico Delamboye. Soloists included Katherine Fuge (soprano), Wilke te Brummelstroete (mezzo-soprano), Tom Sol (baritone) and Marcel Reijans (tenor). The Vocal Collective provided vocal input.

 

In the morning hours, Mass was celebrated at the cemetery for all those soldiers who lost their lives. The mass was led by Mgr dr. Everhard de Jong, Bishop of Roermond. This celebration, which attracted a great many participants, was given a musical background by the Koninklijke Harminie (royal brass band of) St. Cecilia from Mheer led by conductor Fried Dobbelstein.

The Margraten Requiem 2007 is on Sunday, 09 september.

 

 

Photo on left: The Limburg Symphony Orchestra on the podium in front of the cemetery tower. Photo on right: The concert attracted a large public

 

 

Photo on left: Mgr E. de Jong led the celebration of the Mass at the cemetery. Photo on right:  A musical background was given by the Koninklijke Harminie (royal brass band of) St. Cecilia from Mheer