In February 1865 Johannes Brahms received the word that no one ever wants to receive. His brother wrote, "If you wish to see our Mother again, come immediately."
Brahms was too late.
To work out his deep grief the composer began to write a requiem.
Eschewing the traditional text of the Mass, Brahms chose freely from his favorite Bible texts.
The work - A German Requiem - was at once recognized as a masterpiece, a work of profound feeling.
Highlights from the National Lutheran Choir's performance on November 1st at Benson Great Hall at Bethel University is this week's Regional Spotlight.
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