Requiem for the Living
Requiem for the Living, composed by Dan Forrest in 2013, is a five-movement choral work that reimagines the traditional Requiem as a narrative for those who remain. Forrest has described the work as speaking “just as much for the living, and their own struggle with pain and sorrow, as for the dead.”
Presented by Central Coast Philharmonia, the performance offered a deeply reflective and immersive musical experience. Spanning approximately 40 minutes, the work unfolded as an extended prayer for healing, shaped by moments of stillness, expressive harmony, and emotional restraint.
Central Coast Philharmonia was joined by the Central Coast Youth Orchestra under the direction of Patrick Brennan. Together, choir and orchestra brought sensitivity and depth to Forrest’s carefully crafted score, allowing the music’s themes of grief, compassion, and hope to resonate with clarity and warmth.
Requiem for the Living stood as a powerful response to contemporary experiences of loss and unrest, guiding listeners on a journey toward reflection, healing, and peace.
Reviews
“The requiem last night was stunning! I thought the balance between the voices and the orchestra
was great in the venue! A wash of glorious harmonies, colours and vocal tones and effective
dynamics. Beautiful work from the soloists – loved it!! Bravi tutti!”
“Anne, your contribution to the whole concert was just superb. The choice of the repertoire was
perfect and I thought the choir and orchestra were excellent. Thank you.”
“The music evoked so many emotions for me, & I’m pretty sure for others in the audience too.
(Always does, the power of music to speak directly to the soul!)”
“CONGRATULATIONS!!! She shouts from the rooftops. Performance beyond measure by all. Instant
transportation to heaven!”
“This was such a lovely concert in an amazing setting! The Requiem for the Living was beautiful –
everything about it, the choir, the orchestra the soloists and the incredible music by Dan Forrest.
Thank you for bringing this music to the Central Coast.”
“Wonderful concert once again, amazing goose bump moments throughout.
As usual a fantastic venue for a dynamic sound. Thank you all for a great night of stunning music, it’s
so lovely to see and hear so much passion in what you all love. Thank you!”
“What a beautiful experience. The Requiem picked me up like a wave and brought grief and
happiness. Glorious.”
“Brilliantly composed, passionate choirs and an incredible orchestra. Very professional and
memorable. Takes you to another world.”
“CC Philharmonia is amazing – love the intimacy and connection.
It was as good as Royal Melbourne Philharmonia. Well done. Absolutely gobsmacked.
Run it again.”
Programme
Gallery
