The Handel and Haydn Society continues its acclaimed Haydn exploration on CORO with one of the composer’s last major works – the dramatic and sumptuous Mass in B flat major more commonly known as the ‘Harmoniemesse’ because of its use of a full wind band. It is accompanied on this album by the Symphony no.99 in E flat major – one of Haydn’s twelve ‘London’ symphonies composed between 1791 and 1795 when London was the indisputable musical capital of Europe.

Handel and Haydn Society is America’s oldest continuously operating arts organisation. Harry Christophers has been Artistic Director since 2008 during which time the Society has released 12 recordings on CORO including Haydn’s Creation and all six of his ‘Paris’ Symphonies, Mozart’s Requiem, Coronation Mass and Mass in C minor, and a Christmas album – ‘Joy to the World’ – celebrating America’s favourite festive tunes.

“The Adagio is a hymnlike being that showcases Boston’s wonderful woodwind soloists, while the rustic Minuet provides a characteristically Haydnesque contrast...Christophers once again demonstrates that his 203-year old band are in rude health.” – Gramophone on Haydn Symphonies nos. 49 & 87 (COR16168)