Why Funeral Masses?

For centuries, humankind has been coming up with ways to respectfully bury the dead. And ever since music began being made, it was incorporated into these burial rituals and services. Although our modern culture has come a long way from ancient burial practices such as mummification, there are still things that we incorporate into the modern-day funeral services that we hope show respect for the one who has passed.

Funeral masses, though they are not being composed quite as they were generations before, still serve a powerful purpose. Requiems have been composed for centuries by some of the most well-known composers of all time. Names such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Johannes Brahms, and Guissepe Verdi have all at one time written a Requiem that was incredibly popular.

However, of all the Requiems that have been written, Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem sits at the top of the charts.

A Requiem of Respect

A funeral mass (or Requiem) can serve many purposes. Music is something that can bring peace and closure to those who are grieving and remind them that there is still hope and beauty in the world. In the face of great sadness, music can lift the spirits and encourage people to keep going. The movements within a Requiem, especially Gabriel Fauré’s, speak to listeners about the spirit ascending into heaven after death and pray for rest and peace for the deceased.

The melodies and harmonies within Fauré’s Requiem are timeless. This fantastic piece speaks to everyone who hears it in a powerful way. 

The compelling sincerity of this piece has made it not only a beloved choice for funerals, but for all concert occasions. Fauré’s Requiem sits at medium difficulty, making it acceptable for community and college choruses, as well as advanced church groups. The message that it expresses is one that rings true all year round, and it will continue to do so for many generations to come. Singing and performing a piece like this has a special way of bringing people together. It unifies hearts and leaves audiences inspired – looking forward to hearing more.