Mozart: Krönungsmesse, K. 317 & Other Choral Works (Live)

Featuring

Howard Arman
Katharina Konradi
Sophie Harmsen
Steve Davislim
Krešimir Stražanac
Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin

Chor des Bayerischen Rundfunks
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Did you know?

1/7

Performer Biography

Howard Arman, the conductor, was the artistic director of the Bavarian Radio Chorus from 2016 to 2022 and is known for his versatility across various musical genres, including baroque, choral symphonies, and jazz.

Performer Biography

The Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin, founded in 1982, is a leading chamber orchestra specializing in historically informed performances on period instruments.

Compositional Technique

Mozart's 'Coronation Mass' features operatic elements, with similarities between the soprano solos in the Kyrie and Agnus Dei and arias from his operas 'Così fan tutte' and 'Le nozze di Figaro'.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Mozart's 'Vesperae solennes de Dominica' (KV 321) reflects his artistic maturity, showcasing his ability to create 'unprecedented and tremendous music' despite his limited zeal as court organist.

Historical Context

The 'Coronation Mass' earned its nickname because it was performed at the coronations of Leopold II and his son Francis II as German Emperor and Bohemian King in 1790 and 1791.

Composition History

Mozart's 'Coronation Mass' (Missa, KV 317) was composed in 1779 for the Easter service in Salzburg Cathedral, after his return from a year-long trip to Paris.

Critical Reception

The 'secular' nature of the 'Coronation Mass' led to sharp criticism in the 19th century from movements like Cecilianism, which favored plainchant and vocal polyphony.