CBS Music presents Heavenly Harmony – 7.30 p.m.

A performance of the last Mass written by Joseph Haydn will be the culminating feature of a concert to be given by the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament Choir and Orchestra on Saturday 22nd June at 7.30 p.m. in St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral, 373 Manchester Street.

Admission will be by programme donation of $20 and $15, available at the door.

The Harmoniemesse takes its name from Haydn’s extensive use of wind instruments, possible because in 1802, when it was first performed, the Eisenstadt palace orchestra was at its largest and most impressive.  The cathedral orchestra will be led by David Williams.  Soloists will be Sue Densem, Louisa Pilkington, Wally Enright and Chris Whelan.

Wind and brass accompany the other major work on the programme: Bruckner’s Mass in E Minor.  In 1886, Bruckner was asked to write a special Mass by Bishop Franz-Josef Rudigier for the first section to be completed of his ambitious new Linz Cathedral.  This magnificent work, for 8-part choir accompanied by wind and brass, was the triumphant result.  It has been acclaimed as the finest piece of liturgical music from the romantic era.