Rossini’s "Petite Messe Solennelle" is a setting of the Latin Mass unlike any other. Despite its title, it is neither small in scale nor solemn in mood but fizzes throughout with the tuneful inventiveness and rhythmic excitement that made Rossini such a popular operatic composer. He described it as “the last mortal sin of my old age” and it was clearly written as much for sheer pleasure as for religious devotion, but the luminous, ever-changing harmonies and dramatic interplay between the choir and vocal soloists also lend this piece a deep emotional intensity.
Come and enjoy this unique choral work in the magnificent setting of Rochester’s ancient Cathedral at 7.00pm on Saturday 17th March.
Rochester Choral Society will be conducted by James Norrey and vocal soloists will be:
Susan Young (soprano)
Catherine Parkin (mezzo-soprano)
Clifford Lister (tenor)
William Gaunt (bass)
