The Met Opera Presents a Powerful Performance: Verdi's Requiem

This weekend, the Metropolitan Opera will come together to present a special performance in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The event will feature an all-star cast of American singers, accompanied by the full Met Orchestra and Chorus, conducted by music director Yannick Nézet-Séguin. The program will include Verdi's Requiem, a powerful and emotional work that promises to move audiences.

WFMT spoke with tenor Matthew Polenzani, who is thrilled to be a part of this special concert. When asked why he chose to participate in the event, Polenzani explained that it was an opportunity for him to pay tribute to those affected by the tragic events of 9/11. 'The Verdi Requiem is a powerful and moving work that speaks directly to the human experience,' he said. 'I feel honored to be able to perform this piece with such an incredible group of artists.'

Polenzani, who hails from the Chicago area along with fellow performer Ailyn Pérez, is passionate about using music as a way to bring people together and provide comfort in times of hardship. 'Music has always been a source of solace for me,' he said. 'It has the power to transcend language barriers and cultural differences, and it can bring people together in a way that nothing else can.'

The performance will be broadcast live on PBS affiliates nationwide and will also air as a special in the Great Performances series on WTTW, WFMT's sister station, hosted by star ballerina Misty Copeland. The event is a testament to the power of music to heal and bring people together, even in the darkest of times.

As the country marks 20 years since the tragic events of 9/11, the Metropolitan Opera's Verdi Requiem performance promises to be a moving and emotional experience. With its powerful music and talented performers, it is an event that will not soon be forgotten.

Met opera verdi requiem