Dona Nobis Pacem

Orchestration:

Full orchestra: 3 fl, 2 ob, 2 cl, 2 bn, cbn, 4 hn, 4 tpt (2 opt), 5 tbn (2 opt), tba, timp, 3 perc (BD, TD, SD, cym, tam-tam, tri, tamb, glock, bells), hp, org (opt), str

Reduced orchestra: fl, ob, 2 hn, trp, timp, hp, org, str

Drawing upon the Bible, sections from the Mass, and poems by Walt Whitman, this is a powerful musical evocation of the destruction and death brought about through war and violence, with an overarching message of peace and reconciliation. It was composed in 1936, a time when war was threatening to engulf Europe once again, and the title, which translates as 'Give us peace', is as relevant now as it was when the work was premiered in 1936. Featuring some of the composer's most potent music (both serene and violent), it makes an affecting plea.

Materials for the full orchestra version and an accompaniment for strings and piano are available on hire.