Composer

:

Michael Haydn

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Requiem

Compose Date

:

Aug 10, 1806

Average_duration

:

24:40

Michael Haydn's 'Missa pro defunctis in B flat major, MH 838' is a requiem mass composed in 1771. It was premiered in Salzburg, Austria, on November 15, 1771, at the funeral of Archbishop Sigismund von Schrattenbach. The mass consists of six movements: Introitus, Kyrie, Graduale, Offertorium, Sanctus-Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. The Introitus is a somber and mournful piece, setting the tone for the rest of the mass. The Kyrie is a plea for mercy, with the choir singing in unison and the soloists adding their voices in a call-and-response style. The Graduale is a slow and contemplative piece, with the choir singing in harmony and the soloists adding their voices in a more subdued manner. The Offertorium is a more upbeat piece, with the choir singing in a joyful and celebratory manner. The Sanctus-Benedictus is a grand and majestic piece, with the choir and soloists singing in harmony and the orchestra providing a rich and full accompaniment. The Agnus Dei is a quiet and contemplative piece, with the choir and soloists singing in a more subdued manner. Overall, the 'Missa pro defunctis in B flat major, MH 838' is a beautiful and moving requiem mass, with a mix of somber and joyful pieces that reflect the emotions of mourning and celebration. Michael Haydn's use of harmony and orchestration creates a rich and full sound that adds to the emotional impact of the mass.

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