‘Marbhna’ – A Requiem Mass  with music composed by Odhrán Ó’Casaide at  Knock Basilica 12 noon November 6^th commemorating all those who died in 1916.

Chief Celebrant Most Rev. Bishop Brendan Kelly, D.D, Bishop of Achonry

Requiem 1916 Marbhna, in Irish, featuring the voice of Sibéal Ní Chasaide, is a solemn expression of commemoration. It sets out to explore the beauty of sean nós voice, together with chamber choir and orchestra, classical solo voices, traditional and early music instruments. The blend of Irish and classical music reflects two great musical traditions in Ireland at the time of the Rising. The musical motifs are carried seamlessly from genre to genre.  It is the first orchestral setting of a Dies Ires in the Irish language.

The high point of the Requiem is the setting of Patrick Pearse’s poem Fornocht de Chonac Thú. In this he turns his back on the  beauty of the world and sets about his task which he predicts will lead to his demise. This poem was composed in 1912, three years before the Rising and is very similar in style to that of the great 18^th Century Irish poets. This is followed by Caoine nbPáistí  – which is a lament specially written to commemorate all the children who died in the Rising.  The inaugural performance of Marbhna took place in City Hall in January and was attended by President Higgins and guests from political and cultural traditions. It was performed and recorded by TG4 for an audience that included the Lord Mayor of Dublin and members of the Diplomatic Corps in March.

All are welcome to attend this special Mass.