Dies irae

The International Organ Week in Nuremberg which commissioned this work gave the composer the opportunity to compose for three organs: a very rare opportunity! Together with three trumpets, this one-movement piece makes full use of the tonal possibilities of the inner space of a church. It is especially the 'tutti' chords passed by one organ to the other that have an impressive effect. As son of a composer and music teacher, Rodion Shchedrin received a thorough education and training in Moscow. His previous oeuvre is convincing due to its dazzling colour, unmistakable sound and variety accomplished in all genres.