Rutter's Requiem

[Eine Alpensinfonie]

I was first introduced to Rutter's Requiem by Antony Hopkins on one of his "Talking about Music" programmes.
Soon afterwards, I sang in it and bought the Collegium recording with composer conducting. I know many people are sniffy about Rutter's music, but I remain drawn to his Requiem. Yesterday, I took part in a "Come and sing" day in Malton, culminating in a performance of this beautiful work. A massed choir of over 200 sang and achieved a remarkable blend of sound for a group who had never rehearsed together before.

[Stephen Smith]

I sang the Requiem under the man himself last autumn, in St Albans. Initially I identified some elements garnered from the language of Howells, Britten- no doubt others, but I think the programme notes said he regarded the piece, at least in in part as a homage or some such. But I have to say it was rewarding in the end. And John Rutter is very positive in his approach to a choir, it was a pleasure to sing it, the more so with him.
I've heard of a number of singing days he directs, seems to be a scratch rehearsal day / performance - which I imagine he doesn't need to do, but supports singing and music making.

[Eine Alpensinfonie]

I've heard of a number of singing days he directs, seems to be a scratch rehearsal day / performance - which I imagine he doesn't need to do, but supports singing and music making.

Quite so, and it's good that there are people of note doing this.