September 11, 2002 at 8:46 am, the bell in Corthell Tower rang for one minute. Following the bell was a chorus of students, faculty and members of the community as they joined in a worldwide effort in singing Mozart’s Requiem at 8:47. The same song was sung in every state and throughout many countries. Mozart’s Requiem was chosen for its universality and familiarity. A requiem is a song often played at a funeral or about death. The song is a prayer for the departed and hope for the living. Conductor Robert Russell called it, “An amazing feeling to perform the song. It was a global effort, which is of enormous significance.” The significance of the performance and of the day was shown by all chorus members who wore cut out hears with victims names written on them. Organizers of the event shipped each chorus, names of different victims in an effor to remember all of those lost that morning
The chorus’ rendition was broadcast live on WMPG and left most in attendance with teary eyes and tissues in hand.
Soloists included Ellen Chickering, Margaret Yauger, Bruce Fithian, Malcolm Smith.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,
And may perpetual light shine upon them.
It is fitting to sing a hymn to Thee, O God, in Sion,
And unto Thee shall a vow be paid in Jerusalem.
Hear my prayer;
Unto Thee shall all flesh come.
Lord, have mercy
Christ, have mercy
Lord, have mercy.