Verdi's large-scale oratorio, one of the most frequently performed and best-known requiems in the repertoire, is conducted on this occasion by Mátyás Antal, whose name has become inextricably associated with the history of the Hungarian National Choir. The chorusmaster is a defining figure at the almost 30-year-old ensemble, which he has led for a quarter of a century, shaping its profile, preparing it for orchestral concerts, opera performances and evenings in its own right, and often tak...ing the conductor's rostrum himself. The choir has partly Antal to thank for the extraordinary richness of its repertoire and its openness to a variety of genres and styles. The National Choir has already performed a large portion of the oratorial repertoire, becoming one of the most expert ensembles in the genre as a consequence.
Verdi's Requiem is a work which the choir has performed on numerous occasions under a number of different conductors. Well over an hour long, the composition has been described by mischievous observers as an opera in ecclesiastical clothing. This is valid inasmuch as it is characterised by the same variety and dramatic power as Verdi's best works for the stage. Its most distinctive movement is perhaps the Dies irae, in which an idiosyncratic vision of hell comes to life with a vividness and harrowing realism that almost recall the paintings of Hieronymus Bosch. At the same time, the work ends on a note of the most natural and reassuring optimism, comfort which can only be provided at a time of spiritual tribulation.
Presented by: Hungarian National Philharmonic
Parking information
We wish to inform you that in the event that Müpa Budapest's underground garage and outdoor car park are operating at full capacity, it is advisable to plan for increased waiting times when you arrive. In order to avoid this, we recommend that you depart for our events in time, so that you you can find the ideal parking spot quickly and smoothly and arrive for our performance in comfort. The Müpa Budapest underground garage gates will be operated by an automatic number plate recognition system. Parking is free of charge for visitors with tickets to any of our paid performances on that given day. The detailed parking policy of Müpa Budapest is available here.
Safe ticket purchase
Dear Visitors, please note that only tickets purchased from the Müpa website and official ticket offices are guaranteed to be valid. To avoid possible inconvenience, we suggest buying tickets to our performances and concerts via the mupa.hu website, the Interticket national network (jegy.hu) or at our official ticket offices.