Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Joseph Haydn's sacred choral works with this exquisite 1978 release from Decca Music Group Ltd. The album presents two of Haydn's most celebrated masses: the "Missa Sancta Caeciliae" in C Major, also known as the "Mariazeller Mass," and the "Missa brevis Sancti Joannis de Deo" in B Flat Major, affectionately referred to as the "Little Organ Mass." Composed with the characteristic grace and ingenuity that define Haydn's oeuvre, these masses are masterful displays of choral writing, blending solemnity and jubilation in equal measure.
The "Mariazeller Mass," dedicated to Saint Cecilia, the patroness of music, is a grand and expressive work, showcasing Haydn's ability to convey deep spiritual devotion through music. The "Little Organ Mass," on the other hand, is a concise yet profound composition, notable for its integration of organ accompaniment, adding a rich textural dimension to the choral performance.
Spanning a total of 55 minutes, this album is a treasure trove for enthusiasts of classical and chamber music. Haydn's meticulous craftsmanship and innovative spirit are evident in every movement, from the solemn introspection of the "Kyrie" to the triumphant exultation of the "Gloria." Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to Haydn's music, this album offers a captivating exploration of the composer's sacred choral repertoire, performed with the precision and artistry that have made his works enduring classics.
Mass in C Major - Missa Sancta Caeciliae (Missa cellensis), Hob. XXV:5: 1. KyrieJoseph Haydn, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in C Major - Missa Sancta Caeciliae (Missa cellensis), Hob. XXV:5: 2. GloriaJoseph Haydn, Jennifer Smith, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in C Major - Missa Sancta Caeciliae (Missa cellensis), Hob. XXV:5: 3. CredoJoseph Haydn, Robert Tear, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in C Major - Missa Sancta Caeciliae (Missa cellensis), Hob. XXV:5: 4. SanctusJoseph Haydn, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in C Major - Missa Sancta Caeciliae (Missa cellensis), Hob. XXV:5: 5. BenedictusJoseph Haydn, Jennifer Smith, Helen Watts, Robert Tear, Benjamin Luxon, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in C Major - Missa Sancta Caeciliae (Missa cellensis), Hob. XXV:5: 6. Agnus DeiJoseph Haydn, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in B Flat Major - Missa brevis Sancti Joannis de Deo ("Kleine Orgelmesse"), Hob.XXII:7: 1. KyrieJoseph Haydn, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in B Flat Major - Missa brevis Sancti Joannis de Deo ("Kleine Orgelmesse"), Hob.XXII:7: 2. GloriaJoseph Haydn, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in B Flat Major - Missa brevis Sancti Joannis de Deo ("Kleine Orgelmesse"), Hob.XXII:7: 3. CredoJoseph Haydn, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in B Flat Major - Missa brevis Sancti Joannis de Deo ("Kleine Orgelmesse"), Hob.XXII:7: 4. SanctusJoseph Haydn, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in B Flat Major - Missa brevis Sancti Joannis de Deo ("Kleine Orgelmesse"), Hob.XXII:7: 5. BenedictusJoseph Haydn, Jennifer Smith, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest
Mass in B Flat Major - Missa brevis Sancti Joannis de Deo ("Kleine Orgelmesse"), Hob.XXII:7: 6. Agnus DeiJoseph Haydn, Choir of St. John's College, Cambridge, John Scott, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, George Guest