Requiem

From plainsong to Penderecki, this film transmitted on Remembrance Sunday shows how music has shaped the requiem over 500 years. Director John Bridcut explores the significance and history of one of the oldest musical forms and discusses its enduring appeal with some of its greatest exponents. This feature-length documentary includes specially-shot musical performances by the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales (conducted by Edward Gardner), with sopranos Elin Manahan Thomas and Annemarie Kremer, and bass-baritone Neal Davies. It also features the choir Tenebrae, conducted by Nigel Short. Contributors include the former Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, the conductors Jane Glover, the late Sir Colin Davis, and bass-baritone Bryn Terfel.