This concert combines Fauré’s sublime Requiem, one of the best-loved of all choral works, with shorter secular pieces from the French repertoire.

Debussy’s sensitive settings of 15th century poems by Charles d’Orleans contrast with Ravel’s exquisite Trois Chansons, where both the composer’s own texts and music are full of archaic references. Fauré’s witty Madrigal and a selection of Saint-Saëns’ expressive songs complete the program.

Rick Prakhoff conducts the Melbourne Bach Choir and Orchestra, with soloists Emilia Bertolini, soprano, and Jeremy Kleeman bass-baritone.