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This recording presents the world premiere of a mass recently attributed to Mozart, the Missa Solemnis in C Major. This work, over 52 minutes long, is a grand work for soloists, choir and orchestra, that sets the ordinary of the mass. The majority of this work is sung by the choir - there are a few solos, either for soprano, alto or the four soloists: soprano, alto, tenor and bass.

The work opens with a vibrant Kyrie, which does not, however, sound very mass-like. Melodically it is more like an opera overture, and this tone is continued throughout the work. The choir here is fairly large - from the photo it looks like around 50 singers - and their sound is lush and rich. This work was recorded in a small church, giving it an interesting sound - compact, with little reverberation, yet with a beautiful colour that gives the music a full, rich sound.

Soprano, Inessa Galante, sings two fine solos, the Qui Tollis and the Quoniam. She has a beautiful voice and an excellent range. Her solos are attractive arias with the chorus joining in sections. The work itself is intense at times and light at others, and ranks among some of Mozart’s finest, if it was indeed written by him. It lacks the tension of the great works, such as the Requiem, but is certainly a fine mass and one that should be recognized in the future.

This disc contains two other works, the Exultate, jubilate, a motet for soprano, orchestra and organ, and the Ergo interest & Quaere superna, a short recitative and aria for soprano, orchestra and organ. The former is a lively work in four movements, and the latter a simple aria preceded by a recitative.

This is vintage Mozart, with no surprises, but this "new" mass is something that lovers of Mozart’s sacred music will want to have. The excellent sound, choir and soprano make this a truly wonderful disc.
Kirk McElhearn

 

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