Sven Helbig Creates ‘Requiem A’ to Mark the 80th Anniversary of World War II 

Dresden-based composer and producer Sven Helbig has created Requiem A, a new work that was created to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, honouring the victims of war and calls for a profound plea for peace. 

The A in the title stands for ‘Anfang’ (beginning) and reflects themes of reconciliation and renewal, the texts  are centered around departure (Aufbruch), ashes (Asche), and breathing (Atmen). 

The world premiere took place on February 9, 2025, at Dresden’s Kreuzkirche, performed by the Dresden Kreuzchor, the Saxon State Orchestra, and bass-baritone René Pape. Requiem A will be released by Deutsche Grammophon on VE Day, May 8, 2025, and is available for pre-order now here.