Coronation Mass (Mass in C Major)K. 317

Solemn Vespers (Vesperae Solennes de Confessore) K.339
Two Epistle Sonatas in C K. 278 and K.329

When: Sunday, May 5, 2024 at 4:00 pm
Where: Lois Perkins Chapel at Southwestern University, Georgetown, Texas
Who: San Gabriel Chorale and Orchestra, Conducted by Dr. Bruce Cain
Organ by Dr. David Polley
Tickets: $25 adults, Students Free under 18 or with Southwestern University ID

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) was a prolific and influential composer of the Classical period. In his short life, Mozart composed over 800 works, including operas, symphonies chamber pieces, concerti and choral works. His Mass in C Major, K. 317, also known as the “Coronation Mass,” is one of Mozart’s most celebrated sacred works. It premiered in 1779, during the time when Mozart was court organist and composer for the Salzburg Cathedral. The masterpiece was composed for four part choir, soloists, orchestra, and organ.

The nickname “Coronation Mass” became associated with this piece many years later after becoming the preferred music for royal and imperial coronations in Vienna. This masterpiece is frequently performed worldwide and is renowned for its complexity, grandeur and beauty.

Vesperae Solennes de confessore K. 339 is a sacred choral work composed in 1780, when Mozart was the court organist and concertmaster for the Salzburg Cathedral. It is also scored for SATB choir, soloists and organ plus orchestra.

The two Epistle Sonatas to be performed by Dr. Polley and the orchestra are the Epistle Sonata in C, K. 278, and the Epistle Sonata in C, K. 329. It appears that K. 329 was written for the same Sunday that the Coronation Mass was first performed.

This concert is supported in part by a grant from the City of Georgetown Arts and Culture Board. It is also a community collaboration with Southwestern University.