La Jolla Symphony & Chorus To Perform Verdi's 'Requiem' This Weekend

The La Jolla Symphony & Chorus is presenting a show this weekend. There is a large course of Symphony and cello vocalist. This vocal classic is one of the final consorts for long time director David Chase. During his 43 year tenure,'s aim has been to strengthen traditions while expanding into untraditional repertoire. Joining me is David Chase. Welcome to the show. This is written by the great composer. How close to operate is this piece? It gets close. It requires four solace who sound like they are in an opera. The chorus is larger than what you would normally have in an opera chorus. The orchestra is big. It is quite big. It is operatic. You are blending the talents of the Symphony chorus and the gay man's course in his peace. How much wrangling does that take? Wrangling is the right word. It is hurting cast and putting together something special. I think we feel that it is very special. We do not have very many opportunities to get these groups together. They love to be together to tell you the truth. Let's listen to a piece of it from your rehearsal. [ music ] Stephen check says that in the "Requiem" , the voices stand for those who can no longer here. What do you do to convey that affect? The first job is to do what is on the page. Then, we will get in touch with 100 years of history. It includes the amazing fact that the performance at the concentration camp, when you think of those traditions that role together in a major piece like this by major composer, you have to get swept away. You are referring to the fact that "Requiem" was performed at a concentration camp prisoners. Right here that was learned from one score. All of these people memorized this huge piece from one score over a period of time. It is astounding. Is is a favorite piece? Back absolutely. It is the first time I have been involved in the performance of it. It was so big. I am happy to be doing it now. Let me take you back when you joined the La Jolla Symphony & Chorus in 1973. How has the Symphony changed? It has changed a lot. It was much smaller. It was less capable. We were at the beginning of something. It has grown in quantity and quality. That is what makes me the happiest, it is to see the progression. Aleman your memorable experiences at La Jolla Symphony & Chorus, are there anything that stands out for you? Back I remember the first time I did the St. Matthew passion. I remember getting on the podium and thinking I should not be here. This is just too good to be true. I do remember that. There are specific pieces that have been very special over the years, including Lewis Carroll, based on Alice in Wonderland. It involved my whole family at that time. That made it memorable. They draw talent from San Diego. It is a mix of volunteers and professionals. Are you pleased with the quality of musicians that you had work with? It is astonishing how much it has improved over the past 20 years. As you mentioned, I have been here longer than that. It did not used to be a happening town for music and for serious singers. That seems to have changed radically lately. There are some good groups coming out. What will you move onto now that you are retiring? Back I was afraid you were going to ask me that. I am looking forward to a reset button. When we finish the season, my wife and I are going to go to Rome for four must. That will be a new experience. When we come back, we have taken a vow that we will have a clean slate and not decide what comes next. Asked me in a year and maybe I can tell you. Fair enough. I am speaking with David Chase. Thank you. Think you. It has -- thank you. It has been a pleasure. La Jolla Symphony & Chorus is performing "Requiem" Saturday and Sunday.