My Easter Tradition: Mozart's 'Requiem'

[Zomby Woof]

Four years ago when my time in Seattle was nearing an end, I was determined to see the Seattle Symphony at least once in their relatively new home, Benaroya Hall. Easter of 2003 provided the perfect opportunity, as they were performing Mozart's "Requiem". I had seen the Seattle Symphony perform the music of some of my favorite composers, but I had yet to experience their interpretation of the Master.

Dressed in my finest suit and seated in the balcony above stage right, I felt goosebumps as the conductor raised his baton. The hall is beautiful, and the acoustics outstanding. From the opening notes, I knew this was to be an Easter to treasure for years to come.

I was moved to tears by the end of the first movement. Such a sublime and powerful statement. It was a fitting goodbye present for myself in a place I was happy to call home for 15 years. In a way, it was a requiem for Seattle and the joys and sorrows life brought me there; a tribute to the friendships and accomplishments which deepened my experiences and made life's journey worthwhile.

Today on the way to work, I put my CD of the piece in the car player. My commute allowed it to finish just 20 seconds after parking at work. I put in a half day, and played an encore for the ride home.

This evening, despite neither of us feeling 100% with colds, Nini and I went out for a modest Easter dinner.

How was your day? :hi: