Messe Solonelle (1863)

Next to the "Stabat Mater," the "Petite Messe solennelle" of 1863 is Rossini’s second extensive sacred composition and without a doubt a highlight of his late works. On this recording with Tonu Kaljuste and the Kirchheimer Vokal-Consort, one can hear the original version of the mass, in which the "orchestra" comprises a piano and a harmonium. This instrumental garb, reminiscent of salon music, produces an unmistakable timbre which through its typical Rossini rhythm obtains an additional flair.