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Chandos' Haydn series continues at a furious pace and after a highly successful 'Nelson Mass' we are being treated to a magnificent new recording of the pompous 'Heiligmesse' was long overdue. Hickox's team of soloists accredit themselves quite superbly and the flair and panache of the Collegium Musicum 90 makes for an excellent and highly accomplished interpretation. The conductor favours generally high speeds, which add to the exhilaration of the proceedings. The 'Gloria' is particularly trenchant both in its irrepressible rhythmic drive and in its pensive lyrical perorations. These masses show Haydn at his finest symphonic aspirations, this 'Heiligmesse' recalls Beethoven's grander efforts in his Missa Solemnis but is uniquely Haydn especially in the martial Agnus Dei that is not far off from the more famous 'Paukenmesse'. Lorna Anderson sings her high-throated solos superbly and there is also excellent support from Hickox and his choral forces that belie their size by their rumbustious and grossly energic contributions.

With the Missa 'Sancti Nicolai' we are back in Haydn's early days. The introspective and quiet nature of the music is far removed from the irresistible energy of the 'Heiligmesse' and makes a really viable coupling. The intimate scoring is quite magical and the orchestra's timbre is quite superbly matched especially in the many instrumental solos that dot the proceedings like chapels in a countryside. However it is queer to note that the Agnus Dei is rather extensive at over six minutes in length even longer than the Heiligmesse. Hickox's interpretation is satisfyingly spacious and has good momentum although I still prefer Simon Preston's thrilling late 70's recording for the then 'L'Oiseau Lyre'. That contains a sense of excitement and discovery that is occasionally lacking here. One must not be mean however, for with a superbly vivid recording and wonderful presentation, this new Chandos issue is surely the one to have for the 'Heiligmesse' at least. I look forward to further issues in this fast rising series of excellence.

Reviewer

Gerald Fenech

Performance:

Sound:

Reviewer

Gerald Fenech

Performance:

Sound:

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