Requiem Dies Magna
A Major Choral Work by Michael Bussewitz - Quarm
Requiem Dies Magna is a full-length requiem exploring grief, ambiguous loss, and the long arc toward healing. Originally written in response to the events of September 11, 2001, the work ultimately transcends its historical roots to become a universal meditation on sorrow, community, sacrifice, and hope.
The title Dies Magna (“a day of great magnitude”) reflects not only the tragedy of that day, but the profound humanity revealed in its aftermath — the courage of first responders, the generosity of strangers, and the enduring resilience of communities.
Rather than offering easy consolation, the work acknowledges a deeper truth:
There is never truly a closer, nor are there true stages in our grief.
Even its final movement — a cry for peace — carries dissonance within its final cadences, honoring the complexity of loss.
“Our struggle is only part of who we are, and not the whole of us”
Musical Arc
Across ten movements, the work traces an emotional and spiritual journey:
De Profundis – A cry rising from the depths
O Vos Omnes – A moment of stillness as sorrow fully reveals itself
Lux Aeterna – Ethereal textures and shimmering sonorities evoke angelic lament and transcendence
Kyrie – A personal supplication for peace
In Paradisum – Renewed trust and spiritual rebirth
Pacem Relinquo Vobis – An urgent, unresolved plea for peace
The complete cycle invites performers and audiences into shared reflection, communal remembrance, and renewed humanity.
A Requiem for Our Time
For SATB Choir, Soloists, and Chamber or Full Orchestra
Approx. 55 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate to Moderately Advanced (varies by movement)
Performance Window
SATB Choir
Soloists (varies by movement)
Chamber Orchestra or Full Orchestra
Select movements adaptable for smaller forces
Approximate Duration: 65 minutes
Some individual movements are also available separately for programming flexibility.
Featured Movement
Available independently for SSAATB divisi a cappella, Lux Aeterna features:
“Simmering” layered textures that emerge from near silence
Gradual textural build from ethereal minimalism to full-bodied entreaty
Overtone singing effects and staggered breathing creating luminous resonance
Ideal For
University and collegiate choirs seeking a major collaborative work
Anniversary or memorial programming
Cross-disciplinary projects involving history, theology, or trauma studies
Community-engaged performances centered on remembrance and healing
A Work Awating Its Full Collegiate Realization
While portions of Requiem Dies Magna have been performed in memorial and fundraising settings, the complete work awaits its full collegiate premiere. The composer welcomes collaborative partnerships for presentation, orchestral refinement, and academic engagement surrounding the work.