ChorWerk Ruhr olv. Florian Helgath

‘A sin of old age’ is how Gioachino Rossini described his captivating ‘Petite Messe Solennelle’. Physical problems, political instability and a shift in audience taste led to the popular Italian opera composer taking early retirement at the age of 38. However, he continued to amuse himself in secret with his musical sins. The ‘Petite Messe Solennelle’ is precisely such a heavenly latecomer. According to the composer, it needed nothing more than a choir of twelve angels, two pianos and a harmonium. With his characteristically captivating melodies, infectious rhythm, drawn out climaxes and intense word setting, Rossini sticks to the musical language of his operas. This intense intimacy is perfectly suited to Florian Helgath, who superbly leads Chorwerke Ruhr and a quartet of top soloists through this romantic masterpiece. Because of its unusual requirements, the work does not often make it onto the concert stage, but there’s no doubt that this classic comes highly recommended.