Haydn’s Six Last Masses

Embark on a choral odyssey like no other with our multi-year series to learn these glorious works

Joseph Haydn, one of classical music’s most towering figures, composed some of his most magnificent sacred works during the final years of his life.  Among these are his Six Late Masses, written between 1796 and 1802.  From 2024, Choir of the Earth is undertaking a multi-year series of courses to learn, sing, and record each of these extraordinary masses.

Haydn’s Six Late Masses

These works are not only testaments to Haydn’s masterful ability to blend symphonic form with choral writing but also celebrated for their emotional depth and complexity.  Each mass was commissioned by the Esterházy family, Haydn’s long-time patrons, to mark the name day of Princess Maria Hermenegild.  Today, they stand as some of the most beloved works in the choral repertoire, offering profound spiritual and musical experiences for performers and listeners alike.

Our Multi-Year Choral Odyssey

At Choir of the Earth, we are thrilled to undertake a multi-year series to learn, sing, and record each of these extraordinary masses.  Led by our inspiring Musical Director, Ben England, this project is a rare opportunity to dive deep into Haydn’s genius and explore his sacred masterpieces over the next several years.  Whether you're new to Haydn or a seasoned fan of his music, this series offers something truly special.

Nelson Mass – Missa in angustiis (1798)

We began our journey in January-February 2024 with Haydn’s Nelson Mass, one of his most dramatic and intense works.  Premiered in 1798 in Eisenstadt, this mass was composed during a time of war and uncertainty, earning its title “Mass in Troubled Times.”  It is a powerful expression of both tension and hope.

Watch the concert performance of Nelson Mass on YouTube from Friday 27 September 2024, at 17:00 UK time (link to follow).

From November 2024, Choir of the Earth Events will host six exciting Haydn “Nelson” Mass come-and-sing events throughout the UK, plus - subject to sufficient interest - a very special finale in Austria!

Harmony Mass – Harmoniemesse (1802)

Next, we will learn Haydn’s final mass, the Harmony Mass, starting on 20 January 2025. Composed in 1802, this piece showcases a full complement of wind instruments, giving it a unique "harmony" character. It is considered one of Haydn’s crowning achievements, blending orchestral brilliance with profound choral writing.

Choir of the Earth Haydn Harmony Mass

The Remaining Four Masses

From 2026 to 2029, we will continue our journey with Haydn’s other Late Masses. Each is a masterpiece in its own right, and together they offer a rich exploration of Haydn’s development as a composer of sacred music.

  • Heiligmesse – Missa Sancti Bernardi von Offida (1796)
    Written to honour St. Bernard of Offida, the Heiligmesse was first performed in Eisenstadt in 1796. Its radiant and uplifting character, combined with Haydn's signature wit, makes it a favourite among choirs.

  • Mass in Time of War – Missa in tempore belli (1796)
    Also known as the Paukenmesse due to its use of timpani, this mass was composed in 1796, during the early years of the Napoleonic Wars. It is a stirring work that reflects the uncertainty of the time while maintaining Haydn’s optimism and energy.

  • Theresa Mass – Theresienmesse (1799)
    Believed to have been named in honour of Empress Maria Theresa, this mass, composed in 1799, is one of Haydn’s most serene and elegant works, offering moments of grandeur as well as intimacy.

  • Creation Mass – Schöpfungsmesse (1801)
    Premiered in 1801, this mass was composed shortly after Haydn completed his great oratorio The Creation. It features themes that echo the oratorio and is a fitting conclusion to Haydn’s extraordinary series of masses.

Join Us for an Unmissable Choral Adventure!

Learning some of Haydn’s Six Late Masses is a unique experience for any singer, and Choir of the Earth invites you to be part of this extraordinary musical journey to learn all six. Whether you join us to learn just one or all of these wonderful masses, you’ll benefit from world-class resources, insightful teaching, and a supportive global community.

To take part, simply become a member of Choir of the Earth. New members can enjoy their first month free with the promo code WELCOME1, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Click below to learn more and become part of our international choral family.