Beethoven: Missa solemnis / Thomas Hengelbrock

• Classical Music

Ludwig van Beethoven’s »Missa solemnis« is a superlative work. The technical and physical demands on the orchestra and choir as well as the conductors, who must be experienced in both fields, are tremendous – which almost predestines Thomas Hengelbrock, and his intimately familiar Balthasar Neumann Choir and Orchestra he established, for this performance. The performers are assisted by an acoustically powerful line-up of top-class soloists.
»From the heart – may it return to the heart« noted Beethoven about the score of his »Missa solemnis« and considered it »the most successful of his creations«. It is the most personal confrontation with his faith and translates an understanding of God shaped by enlightenment and humanism into music. Not by chance, for instance, did it emerge at the same time as his famous Symphony No. 9 with its »Ode to Joy« – and, like this, is a plea to humanity.

PERFORMERS

Balthasar-Neumann-Chor und -Orchester ensemble

Regula Mühlemann soprano

Eva Zaïcik alto

Julian Prégardien tenor

Gabriel Rollinson bass

Thomas Hengelbrock conductor

PROGRAM

Ludwig van Beethoven
Missa solemnis for Soloists, Choir and Orchestra in D major, Op. 123