A unique musical legacy returns: The “Messa per Rossini” was composed in 1869 as a collaborative requiem by thirteen prominent Italian composers in honor of Gioachino Rossini. Out of reverence for the great master, they created a work of monumental scale that also bears witness to a turbulent era in Italian history. After a long period of obscurity, this extraordinary collaborative work offers a fascinating glimpse into the diversity of Italian Romanticism—full of sorrow, hope, and artistic inspiration.

In addition to the large ensembles from Witten/Herdecke University, a quintet of prominent soloists will perform: Elena So (soprano), Bettina Ranch (mezzo-soprano), Max An (tenor), Giorgos Kanaris (baritone), and Almas Svilpa (bass-baritone). The overall direction is under the guidance of University Music Director Ingo Ernst Reihl.

The performance lasts 2.5 hours, including an intermission.

Tickets cost 15 €. Admission is free for high school students, college students, and refugees.