Louis Spohr was considered the best German violin virtuoso and an interesting composer for his instrument after his debut in Leipzig in 1804.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Louis Spohr was called the 'Father of Musical Benevolence' by Hans von Bülow, a pianist whose repertoire included Spohr's chamber music, due to his lifelong commitment to helping younger colleagues like Richard Wagner.
Composer Biography
Louis Spohr, the composer, was the grandson of two Lutheran pastors, yet his largest a cappella sacred work is a setting of the Latin Ordinary of the Mass.
Recording & Production
This album presents a unique combination of two self-contained works by Spohr, arranging the individual movements to correspond to a plenary Mass.
Compositional Technique
The Mass op. 54 by Louis Spohr is not intended for liturgical use, as evidenced by the simultaneous singing of different texts in the Sanctus's double fugue.
Composition History
Spohr's Mass op. 54 was written between April and June 1821, shortly before he began his appointment as court Kapellmeister of the Elector of Hesse.
Compositional Technique
The Mass op. 54 by Louis Spohr combines characteristics of double-choir works by Venetian composer Antonio Lotti with those of J.S. Bach's motets.
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