Dvořák’s deeply personal Requiem is coming to the Festival for a rare full performance in Hong Kong. Combining sacred power with lyrical beauty, the work offers a moving meditation on life, death and faith—presented by the acclaimed National Theatre Brno Orchestra and Choir under newly appointed Chief Conductor Robert Kružík.
Sacred grandeur and spiritual reflection in a rare full performance of Dvořák’s Requiem
Antonín Dvořák’s Requiem offers a moving and uplifting experience of spiritual reflection from one of the most beloved voices in Romantic music. The Czech composer began sketches for the piece in late 1889 and completed it the following year. What emerged was one of his most musically profound and emotionally resonant works—devoid of theatrical exaggeration, yet rich in courageous sorrow, inner stillness and hope.
Divided into two parts, the Requiem opens with an evocation of the Last Judgment that is sombre in tone and charged with quiet intensity. The second part gradually turns toward consolation and acceptance, offering a deeply human vision of mortality. Rather than dwell on despair, the Requiem affirms Dvořák’s lifelong belief in spiritual continuity—offering a compassionate reckoning with life’s mysteries.
A large-scale score for four soloists, full orchestra and mixed chorus, the Requiem combines Dvořák’s signature lyricism with sacred grandeur. Radiant orchestration, finely wrought choral textures and soaring vocal solos create an immersive, layered, transcendent soundscape—and reveal a composer at the height of his powers.
The National Theatre Brno Orchestra and Choir rank among the Czech Republic’s leading interpreters of their national musical heritage, bringing deep authenticity and understanding of the style, language and cultural context to their performance of Dvořák’s music. Led by newly appointed Chief Conductor Robert Kružík, the concert presents a rare opportunity to experience one of the Romantic era’s most ambitious and spiritually profound choral works in Hong Kong.
Advance bookings will start at 10am on 16 October 2025