Launching on Monday 31 August 2026, join us for this 9-week choral course as we explore and record Haydn’s magnificent Theresienmesse (also known as the Maria Theresa Mass), named for the Austrian Empress Maria Theresa of Naples and Sicily.
This course is part of our ongoing series to learn, sing, and record Haydn’s six late Masses – a rich and rewarding body of work for choral singers of all levels.
What we will learn
We will learn and record Theresienmesse, one of Joseph Haydn’s six late Mass settings. It is a joyful and expressive work, ideal for singers looking to explore the Classical choral tradition in more depth.
About the composer
Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) was one of the most important composers of the Classical period and a major influence on Mozart, Beethoven, and many others. Known as the "Father of the Symphony" and a pioneer of the string quartet, he also made lasting contributions to choral and sacred music.
In the final years of his life, Haydn returned to writing Masses, creating six large-scale works between 1796 and 1802. These later Masses are full of invention, charm, and expressive depth, and they remain favourites among choirs and audiences alike.
A little about the piece
The Theresienmesse was composed in 1799 and named in honour of Maria Theresa of Naples and Sicily, the wife of Emperor Francis II. It is the fourth in Haydn’s series of six late Masses.
While some of Haydn’s other Masses are more theatrical, this one is known for its elegance and clarity. The Kyrie opens with a sense of solemnity and drama, leading into vibrant and colourful settings of the Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei.
There are moments of grandeur, warmth, and joyful energy throughout, making this a rewarding and inspiring work for singers who enjoy the Classical style.
Originally written for SATB choir, soloists, strings, trumpets, timpani, and organ, the piece combines elegance with energy. It showcases Haydn’s skill in creating rich textures and emotionally engaging music, all within a clear and balanced Classical style.
Hear the Theresienmesse performed here:
Our teaching and resources
Our online courses are designed to be flexible and welcoming. You will get:
A one-hour full choir rehearsal each week of the course, led by our Musical Director, Ben England
A one-hour sectional rehearsal focused on your voice part (soprano, alto, tenor or bass) each week, with the option to attend any others you like - learn and record as many voice parts as you like, or just come along to enjoy the music and live chat
Rehearsal tracks recorded by professional singers and musicians - for this course by the fantastic Fieri Consort and organist Richard Gowers
The option to record and submit your own recordings, which will be combined with singers around the world to create a final mixed performance
Our rehearsals take place between 17:00 to 21:00 UK time - a full schedule will be provided on our exclusive Members’ Area prior to the course launch. Can’t make it live? No problem - our rehearsals are recorded and available immediately so you can catch up at a time that suits you!
At the end of the course, our global recording will be premiered on YouTube as a concert - a celebration of what we have learned and created together.
You don’t need any previous choral experience to take part in our courses - just a love of singing and a way to get online.
Our innovative learning tools mean you will learn this stunning music in a depth you don’t get with any other choir.
ℹ️ Find out more about how Choir of the Earth works here.
Be part of it
Our course launch session on Monday 31 August 2026 will be open to all, so please come along to hear more about the music and how the course will work.
If you would like to sing the Theresienmesse with Choir of the Earth, simply sign up as a member. New monthly members get their first month free - just enter the promo code WELCOME1 at the checkout - or sign up for an annual membership to enjoy the rest of our 2025/26 programme too, plus save 10% across the year.
We hope to sing with you soon!
Please note: This course is not eligible for our ‘first month free’ offer. Members will need an active subscription for the full duration of the course.
Listen to more of Choir of the Earth’s Haydn performances here:
Discover Choir of the Earth with a full sample week of rehearsals - learn the Sanctus from Haydn’s Harmoniemesse with us here:
Find the score and sample rehearsal tracks from Richard Gowers and Fieri Consort in the description underneath each video
Disclaimer: While we make every effort to ensure that courses proceed on the dates and with the content advertised, unforeseen circumstances may require changes on occasion. We endeavour to minimise such alterations, but we reserve the right to make adjustments if necessary.