J. Haydn Harmoniemesse at St. Stephen's Cathedral
Vienna, Stephansdom — main
About the Event
Experience Joseph Haydn's Harmoniemesse, his final and illustrious mass among six celebrated compositions, and his ultimate masterpiece. This triumphant work, paired with The Creation and The Seasons, marks the pinnacle of his achievements. The program is enriched further by captivating pieces from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Joseph Haydn’s brother, Michael Haydn.
Initially performed in 1802, the Harmoniemesse, one of Haydn’s last masses written for Prince Nicholas II Esterházy, earned its name “Harmony Mass” not from specific harmonics but from the substantial role of wind instruments (“harmony music”) that, together with the choir and orchestra, lend a grand and sonorous texture. A testament to Haydn's seasoned prowess, the Harmony Mass resonates with profound musical and emotional depth.
Guided by conductor János Czifra, this event is part of the Choir Festival, where vocalists from around the globe converge for intensive rehearsals. The festival’s zenith is a performance featuring esteemed soloists accompanied by the Vienna Cathedral Orchestra at St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna – a site intimately connected to Haydn, where he sang as a choir boy for nine years and later exchanged vows with his wife Aloysia.
Program
- Joseph Haydn – Missa in B‐Dur „Harmoniemesse“ (Hob. XXII:14)
- Michael Haydn – Tres sunt qui testimonium dant (MH 183)
- Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Kirchensonate Nr. 7 in F‐ Dur (KV 224)
Artists
| Orchestra: | Wiener Domorchester |
|---|---|
| Conductor: | János Czifra |
| Choir: | Sing Mit! Festivalchor |
Stephansdom
The Stephansdom (St. Stephen´s Cathedral), constructed in the 12th century, is a Viennese landmark. The present-day building incorporates Romanesque and Gothic styles, and stands on the site of two earlier churches. 23 bells hang in the Stephansdom's towers - the most famous is called 'Pummerin', and is the second-biggest church bell in Europe. One highlight of the Stephansdom is its tiled roof, intricately ornamented in richly-colored mosaics that outline Vienna's coat of arms. Visitors can climb up the North or South Tower to take a closer look at the stunning roof and enjoy the view of the city. The cathedral's catacombs - the resting place of approximately 10000 souls - are another must-see. Classical music frequently adds to the magic of the Stephansdom, with those featuring the music of Vivaldi and Mozart attracting the largest crowds.
Address
Stephansdom, Stephansplatz 1 , Vienna, Austria — Google Maps
