Maurice Duruflé was among French composers commissioned in May 1941 by the collaborationist Vichy regime to write extended works for a monetary award, such as 10,000 francs for a symphonic poem, 20,000 for a symphony, and 30,000 for an opera.

[3] Duruflé scored the work for a solo voice in the central movement, Pie Jesu, and a mixed choir, accompanied by organ or orchestra.

[7] Like Fauré in his Requiem, Duruflé's omits most of the liturgical Dies irae, but sets its part Pie Jesu.

He includes Libera me and In Paradisum, from the burial service, again like Fauré, focused on calmness and a meditative character.

[citation needed] The reduced-orchestra version is scored for 3 trumpets, timpani, harp, organ, and strings (violins, violas, cellos, and double basses).