What is requiem?

A requiem is a musical composition designed to commemorate and honor the dead. The term "requiem" comes from the Latin phrase "requiem aeternam," which means "eternal rest." Requiems began as part of the Catholic church's funeral rites, but have since been adapted for use in secular settings as well. The most famous requiem is probably Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's "Requiem Mass in D minor," which he was working on at the time of his death. Other notable requiems include those by Giuseppe Verdi, Gabriel Fauré, and Johannes Brahms. Requiems typically consist of several movements, including a Kyrie (a plea for mercy), a Dies Irae (a vivid depiction of the Day of Judgment), a Sanctus (a hymn of praise), and an Agnus Dei (a plea for mercy).