Principal guest conductor Donald Runnicles is well known for his interpretations of the French catalogue, and it is always a joy to watch (and hear) him conduct Debussy and Duruflé. This weekend will be no different as he presents Debussy's first major orchestral work, Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun. Then the ASO Chorus Women join the orchestra in Debussy's Nocturnes, a tone poem reflecting the sky, a festival, and the lure of the sea. After intermission, the full Chorus performs the incredibly moving Duruflé Requiem, one of the most beautiful versions of the Latin mass for the dead.

Unlike other requiems, Duruflé moved away from dramatic, opera-like moments and instead wrote a peaceful, quiet, reflective mass that focuses on images of Heaven, rather than Hell. With melodies derived from Gregorian chant, Duruflé's Requiem is as moving as it is contemplative.

Atlanta Symphony Hall will be implementing a mandatory vaccine policy for audiences. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to performance, as well as matching photo ID, will be required upon arrival to Atlanta Symphony Hall. As of November 1, patrons under 12 will not be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test. More details are available on our Health & Safety page.