War Requiem - $16.95

Seldom performed or recorded, Britten's War Requiem may be one of the largest and most shaking works of the 20th century. The work was an immediate success following its premiere in May 1962 for the rededication of Coventry Cathedral, which had been destroyed during the Battle of Britain in World War II. In this performance by Helmuth Rilling, the maestro has called upon some of the finest singers in Europe and presides over the massive canvas with a deep sensitivity to the work's texts and intent, creating a truly shattering performance. As might be expected, Rilling's War Requiem displays a strong performance from the choral forces, including the boys choir, and the sonics are stunning. Parts 1 and 2 presented uninterrupted in their entirety.