Tuba mirum
Wiener Philharmoniker - Solti Lyrics

The lyrics in the song "Tuba mirum" by Wiener Philharmoniker with Solti conducting are from the Latin text of the Dies Irae sequence in the Requiem Mass. This portion of the text reflects on the Day of Judgment, when all souls will be summoned before the throne of God to be judged for their deeds in life.

The Bass soloist opens with the words "Tuba mirum spargens sonum" which translates to "The trumpet spreading a wondrous sound," referring to the apocalyptic trumpet blast that announces the Day of Judgment. This powerful imagery sets the tone for the impending judgment that will take place.

The Tenor solo follows, singing about the awe and fear that death and nature will experience when all of creation is resurrected to face judgment. The lyric "Judicanti responsura" underscores the idea that every soul will be accountable for their actions and will have to answer to the divine judgment.

The Alto soloist continues the narrative, proclaiming that when the Judge takes His seat, everything hidden will be revealed, and nothing will go unpunished. This verse emphasizes the idea of divine justice and the accountability of all individuals for their actions.

Finally, the Soprano soloist and the Quartet reflect on the personal reflection and fear that each individual will experience on that Day of Judgment. The uncertainty and anxiety expressed in the final lines capture the universal human sentiment of fear and humility in the face of divine judgment. The combination of the different vocal parts in this piece creates a powerful and haunting depiction of the profound themes of death, judgment, and redemption found in the Dies Irae sequence.