Brahms’ Requiem, performed by a baroque ensemble, let’s just say that it inspires a rather dubious expectation. But, in the genre, this reading by Raphaël Pichon and his Pygmalion ensemble is probably one of the great successes. Despite the relative thinness of the choir (37, for this repertoire, is not much, unless you specifically choose the chamber version, which is not the case here), it is pleasantly imposing in the numerous tutti. And with the orchestra, these collective moments exceed the expected limits of authenticist baroque. It is occasionally that the sonic leanness, particularly in the strings that play without vibrato, betrays the musical construction of this powerful edifice. The usually well-furnished space seems a bit bare.
On the other hand, we should note the delightful clarity of the contrapuntal lines, as well as the very high quality of the choral diction. Let’s add to that soloists who display a vocal beauty of superb quality, especially Sabine Devieilhe, luminous. Some prefer a darker, even opulent tone. I personally do not share this view. Brahms’ Requiem is not essentially tragic, it is rather imbued with light and hope. The presence of the French soprano aligns very well with this spirit.
All in all, here is an exciting reading of this masterpiece, which does not lack muscles, although it is sometimes a bit slender. For my part, I will revisit it again with pleasure.
