Michael Haydn: Pro Festo Innocentium Masses & Vesper

Dive into the sacred and serene world of Michael Haydn with his exquisite collection of masses and vespers, "Pro Festo Innocentium Masses & Vesper." Released on November 25, 2022, this album is a testament to Haydn's mastery of choral and classical music, offering a profound and spiritual experience that spans over an hour and eleven minutes.

The album features three distinct works: the "Missa sub titulo Sancti Leopoldi," the "Vesper in F Major," and the "Missa sancti aloysii." Each piece is meticulously crafted, showcasing Haydn's unique compositional style and deep religious devotion. The "Missa sub titulo Sancti Leopoldi" is a beautiful setting of the ordinary of the mass, while the "Vesper in F Major" includes a variety of vespers settings, culminating in a magnificent "Magnificat." The "Missa sancti aloysii" is a grand and solemn mass, highlighting Haydn's ability to convey both grandeur and intimacy.

Performed by the Accademia Vocale di Genova and the Genova Vocal Ensemble under the direction of Roberta Paraninfo, this album benefits from the ensemble's rich and expressive vocals, bringing Haydn's compositions to life with clarity and precision. The album is presented by Brilliant Classics, a label known for its high-quality recordings and comprehensive booklets, which in this case includes 6 pages of insightful notes.

Michael Haydn, born in 1737 in the Austrian village of Rohrau, was a prolific composer in his own right, often overshadowed by his famous brother, Joseph Haydn. This album offers a chance to explore the depth and beauty of Michael Haydn's sacred music, providing a window into the spiritual and musical world of the late 18th century. Whether you are a longtime fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.