No. 6: Dies Irae from Mozart’s Requiem
- Although drastically different from Verdi’s, Mozart’s Dies Irae does not lack in intensity and ferociousness. Composed in 1791, this was the last work written by Mozart. The Requiem is a very popular piece, not only due to its beauty, but also for its mystery. There are many myths surrounding the exact details on how the Requiem was completed. Mozart died before the work was finished; it was Süssmayr who actually completed the work.
- Hear Mozart’s Dies Irae in the movies X-Men 2, Duplex, and The Incredibles DVD – Jack-Jack Attacks.
No. 7: Nessun Dorma from Turandot, by Puccini
No. 8: Movement 2 from Symphony No. 7, Beethoven
No. 9: Ride of the Valkyries from Die Walküre, by Wagner
- Featured in cartoons and movies, and everything in between, children and adults alike are very familiar with this piece. To many, Ride of the Valkyries represents the stereotypical large opera female festooned with braids, horned helmet, and metal breastplate with spear in hand. Although a wonderful piece, Ride of the Valkyries loses some of its magic among all this pop culture.
- Hear Wagner’s Ride of the Valkyries in the movies Apocalypse Now, The Blues Brothers, and Full Metal Jacket.
No. 10: Peer Gynt Suite No.1, 'Morning', by Grieg
- Synonomous with the rising sun, Grieg’s 'Morning' from Suite No. 1 is known by one and all. Children become familiar with this piece early on, as it is played in many cartoons. Unfortunately, the song titles of songs played are not credited in the ending credits, and even if they were, would kids even notice? I doubt it.
- Hear Grieg’s 'Morning' from Suite No. 1 in the movies Raising Cain and Soylent Green.
