The monumental War Requiem by Benjamin Britten will be the climax of Princeton Pro Musica’s 29th season.

Britten’s powerful perspective on the tragedy of war will be presented in collaboration with the Westfield Symphony. It will mark the first performance of Britten’s masterpiece in New Jersey in 20 years.

David Wroe describes the War Requiem as “an unparalled expression of the horror of destruction and a plea for reconciliation.” Britten was commissioned to write it for the 1962 re-consecration of Coventry Cathedral, which was destroyed by German air raids in WWII. The War Requiem is enormous, with a massive orchestra, full chorus, children’s chorus and three soloists. Britten combined the poetry of Wilfred Owen, who was killed in battle during WWI, with the traditional Requiem text.

Westfield Symphony Conductor David Wroe approached PPM about doing the Britten after the two groups collaborated on a concert version of Bizet’s Carmen. The two groups will be joined by Nassau Presbyterian Church Children’s Choirs, Sue Ellen Page, Director.