On Saturday, April 5th, 2025, the Vancouver Bach Choir will present one of the most powerful and poignant choral works ever composed: Benjamin Britten’s War Requiem. This stirring performance will be held at the Orpheum Theatre at 7:30 PM PST and as our last symphonic concert of the season, is an event you won’t want to miss.
A Cry for Peace Amidst the Tragedy of War
Written by Britten in 1962, the War Requiem serves as a powerful plea for peace, blending the traditional Latin text of the Mass for the Dead with the deeply moving poetry of Wilfred Owen, a World War I soldier and poet. Owen’s words poignantly capture the horrors of war, making this work as relevant today as it was when it was first performed.
The Vancouver Bach Family of Choirs’ (VBFC) Symphonic Choir will be joined by Canadian soloists Melody Courage (soprano), Asitha Tennekoon (tenor), Tyler Duncan (baritone), the West Coast Symphony Orchestra, and a children’s choir from the VBFC. Together, they will bring this monumental work to life in a moving performance that will resonate deeply with all who attend.
Details of the Event:
- Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM PST
- Location: Orpheum Theatre, 601 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3L4
- Ticket Prices: $20-55
- Ticket Purchase: Click here to buy tickets or call (604) 872-8789 for more information.
In keeping with the spirit of the event, the VBFC is offering select free tickets to non-profit organizations whose members would benefit from attending. For more details, please inquire here.
A Message of Peace
Benjamin Britten, a pacifist and conscientious objector during World War II, created the War Requiem as a response to the tragedy of war. As Owen said in his poem:
“My subject is War, and the pity of War. The Poetry is in the pity… All a poet can do today is warn.” – Wilfred Owen
This concert promises to be a deeply powerful evening, reminding us of the tragic cost of conflict and the enduring need to advocate and actively work for peace.
About the Vancouver Bach Family of Choirs
Celebrating its 94th season, the Vancouver Bach Family of Choirs (VBFC) offers exceptional choral education to individuals of all ages, from pre-kindergarten through adulthood. With nine ensembles and nearly 500 singers, VBFC is one of the largest choral groups in Metro Vancouver, enriching the community through the power of music.
We hope you can join us for this inspiring and meaningful event. Don’t miss your chance to experience Britten’s War Requiem performed by some of the finest local talent in a stunning venue.