Symphonic Splendour
373 Manchester Street, Christchurch
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Three exuberant masterpieces by Joseph Haydn will be presented by the CBS Choir & Orchestra on Sunday, September 10, at 2 pm in the Catholic Pro-Cathedral, Manchester Street.
Haydn's Nelson Mass was first performed in September 1798. It was the third of the six great Masses he wrote annually at the end of his life, incorporating all his symphonic skill. It takes its name from the astonishing military victory of 1798, when Napoleon’s fleet was cornered off the coast of Alexandria and blown to pieces.
Reflecting all of Haydn’s genius, the work begins with some spectacular solo flourishes, and ranges from tender supplication to shattering fanfares which reminded the first audience of Nelson’s victory and prompted later ones to call the work after him. It is probably Haydn's greatest single composition, with a ferocious power unleashed during the opening Kyrie, returning at unexpected points such as during the Benedictus. Glorious opportunities are given the soprano soloist, and the bass has a most expressive solo in the Gloria. Characteristic are the great fugue which concludes the Gloria, and the blazing cry for peace which ends the work. Soloists will be Sue Densem, Lila Nicholson, Wally Enright, and Chris Whelan. Natalia M. Lomeiko will lead the orchestra, and the musical director is Don Whelan. Admission will be by programme $25 and $20, available at the door.
The concert begins with a Te Deum, a magnificent setting of the traditional song of thanksgiving for great occasions. It was written for Empress Marie Therese between 1798 and 1800 during Haydn’s last years in Eisenstadt. He had returned home after the sensational success of his twelve London Symphonies dating from 1791 to 1795. Symphony 95 is the only one in a minor key and without the usual solemn, slow introduction. Haydn was obviously fond of the cello, and fortunate to have good players. Important solo passages in both the Mass and this symphony will be played by CBS cello leader Janet Cubey. The symphony is full of variety, high spirits, and happiness, and builds to a wonderful ceremonial climax.
The cathedral musicians maintain an extensive repertoire of masses and motets, sung on Sunday at the 11 a.m. Solemn Choral Mass. New members are welcome to the 7.30 pm Wednesday evening rehearsal at the CBS Music Centre. Sight reading ability is expected. Those interested are invited to contact the CBS Musical Director, Don Whelan, phone 358-5873.
A further concert on Sunday, 12 November, will include a Bach Suite and Cantata, together with the Vivaldi Magnificat and Summer, from the 4 Seasons. The CBS musical year will conclude with its annual Messiah at 1.30 pm on Sunday, 10 December, and a performance of Dvorak’s Mass In D at the Christmas Midnight Mass
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