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Beethoven Mass in C program notes, recordings and sheet music

Program Notes: Ludwig van Beethoven – Mass in C Major, Op. 86

Welcome, dear concert-goer, to a profound and often overlooked gem from one of music's titans. Tonight, we have the pleasure of experiencing Ludwig van Beethoven's Mass in C Major, Op. 86. While often overshadowed by his colossal Missa Solemnis, this earlier Mass is a work of immense beauty, heartfelt devotion, and characteristic Beethovenian drama, offering a more intimate yet equally powerful glimpse into his spiritual world.

Beethoven: From Practicality to Profound Piety

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) is synonymous with revolutionary symphonies, fiery concertos, and intensely dramatic piano sonatas. While his public image is often one of a defiant, heroic figure, his relationship with sacred music was complex and deeply personal. Unlike Bach, whose church music was a daily professional duty, Beethoven composed masses rarely, and each was a significant undertaking, deeply felt.

The Mass in C Major was commissioned in 1807 by Prince Nikolaus II Esterházy, the same patron who had employed Joseph Haydn for many years. The Prince had a tradition of commissioning a new Mass each year, and after Haydn's long service, the task fell to Beethoven. This commission placed Beethoven in a challenging position, as he felt he had to compose a Mass "that Prince Esterházy has never yet had." This was a tall order, given Haydn's legendary contributions to the genre.

The premiere at Eisenstadt was, by some accounts, not a resounding success. Prince Esterházy reportedly commented with a wry smile, "But,

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