The recording uses a five-string double bass tuned to D major, as mentioned by Leopold Mozart in his 'Treatise on the Fundamental Principles of Violin Playing' as suitable for church and chamber music.
Interpretation
This album reconstructs a Marian Mass from Mozart's Salzburg period, using instrumental pieces like church sonatas to replace vocal sections, reflecting the flexibility of Mass celebrations at the time.
Composition History
Mozart composed the gradual Sancta Maria KV 273 and the offertory Alma Dei creatoris KV 277 in 1777 as prayers for the safekeeping of his family, shortly before a journey that proved disastrous.
Recording & Production
The motet Ave verum Corpus KV 618, composed much later than the other works, is included as a postlude and homage to Mozart's genius, despite not being part of the Marian Mass reconstruction.
Historical Context
In 1776, Mozart complained about the conditions in his native Salzburg, noting that church music was very different from Italian style and Masses were limited to 45 minutes.
Composer Biography
Mozart referred to Archbishop Colloredo as an 'arch-villain' in a letter to his father, despite Colloredo's occasional tolerance of Mozart's impertinence.
Historical Context
Archbishop Hieronymus von Colloredo, Mozart's employer, was a reformer who banned church processions, gun salutes during services, and shortened liturgy to 45 minutes, even introducing German songs into church services.
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