The story of Mozart’s Requiem is shrouded in mystery and almost as dramatic as the music itself. Mozart died on 5 December 1791, aged just 35, leaving the Requiem unfinished. His widow arranged for its completion, principally by his pupil Franz Xaver Süssmayr. Although Mozart had written much of the choral music, his exact contribution to the finished work is still debated.

Regardless of origin, every movement has something special to offer singers. From the haunting opening to the drama of the Dies irae, the Requiem is full of memorable moments. My favourite piece - and one of my favourites in the whole of choral music - is the Kyrie. Listening to the intricately interwoven themes of this magnificent double fugue, you wonder how you could possibly sing it. Yet with plenty of practice, precision - and stamina! - anyone can experience the thrill of performing it. And if something goes wrong, you get another chance in the finale!