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Wolfgang Amadé Mozart

1756

Salzburg

– 1791

Wien

Coronation Mass KV 317

Date of composition: 1779
Scoring: 4 vocal parts, 2 violins, 2 oboes, 2 horns, 2 trumpets, 3 trombones, timpani, bass, and organ
Duration: 26 minutes
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Coronation Mass, without a doubt, ranks among the most significant works of the famous Austrian composer. This Mass, officially known as “Missa in C, KV 317,” was composed in 1779 and stands as a remarkable example of Mozart’s mastery in the realm of sacred music. The Coronation Mass earned its name due to its use in the coronation of Emperor Leopold II as the Holy Roman Emperor in Prague in 1791. The festive and majestic nature of the Mass was a perfect fit for such a solemn occasion. Indeed, the music reflects the royal grandeur and solemnity associated with a coronation ceremony. The Mass is scored for four solo voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass), mixed choir, and orchestra. Right from the opening Kyrie, one can discern the musical grandeur and virtuosity of the composer. The melodic lines are rich and powerful, while the orchestra plays majestic chords. Particularly noteworthy is the Gloria, one of the most well-known parts of the Coronation Mass. Here, Mozart employs lively rhythms and solemn trumpet sounds to convey the joy and praise of God. The choir sings in radiant harmonies, and the solo voices gracefully soar above.
The Credo, another section of the Mass, is an example of Mozart’s ability to generate dramatic and emotional depth in his music. The music alternates between solemn passages and introspective moments, creating an intense spiritual experience. The Coronation Mass showcases Mozart’s mastery in uniting sacred music with dramatic expression and regal splendor. Despite its festive nature, the Mass exudes a profound spiritual dimension that touches the audience. Overall, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Coronation Mass is a masterpiece of sacred music and an impressive testament to his compositional talent. Over the centuries, the Mass has lost none of its fascination and significance, remaining a highlight in the repertoire of sacred music. It is a wonderful example of how Mozart was able to capture both religious devotion and the splendor of royal ceremonies in his music.

Performances of

Coronation Mass KV 317
1
June
2024

Mozart's Sacred Masterpieces

Mozart

Sancta Maria Litaniae Lauretanae K. 195

Mozart

Solemn Vespers of the Confessor, K. 33

Mozart

Coronation Mass KV 317

Ensemble Péridot Salzburg

Marc-Olivier

Oetterli

Baritone

Martin

Mairinger

Tenor

Amelia

Scicolone

Soprano

Cornelia

Sonnleithner

Old

Peter

Peinstingl

Conductor

Mozart's Sacred Masterpieces

Sat | 1. June 2024 | 19:30

Mozart

Sancta Maria Litaniae Lauretanae K. 195

Mozart

Solemn Vespers of the Confessor, K. 33

Mozart

Coronation Mass KV 317

Ensemble Péridot Salzburg

Marc-Olivier

Oetterli

Baritone

Martin

Mairinger

Tenor

Amelia

Scicolone

Soprano

Cornelia

Sonnleithner

Old

Peter

Peinstingl

Conductor

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