After Gioachino Rossini's death in 1868, Giuseppe Verdi suggested that a number of Italian composers collaborate on a Requiem in Rossini's honor. Unfortunately the project was abandoned by the organisation. But not much later, upon hearing of the death of the Italian writer and humanist Alessandro Manzoni, Giuseppe Verdi resolved to complete a Requiem, this time entirely of his own writing. he 'Messa da Requiem' is a musical setting of the Catholic funeral mass (Requiem) for four soloists, double choir and orchestra. It is rarely performed in liturgy, but rather in concert form.
The 'Dies irae' is the second movement of the requiem. Dutch arranger Christiaan Janssen transcribed this 'Dies irae' for Soloists, Choir and Symphonic Band.