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Kyrie — Missa solemnis op. 123 (Beethoven)

Ludwig van Beethoven

Score

Read it and listen to it right here. It can't be downloaded — to sing it with your choir, use it in Cantico.

History

Kyrie — Missa solemnis op. 123 (Beethoven)

Beethoven composed the “Missa solemnis” in D major, op. 123, between 1819 and 1823, intended for the enthronement of his pupil and patron, Archduke Rudolf, as Archbishop of Olomouc. Over the opening of the Kyrie he wrote: “From the heart — may it go again to the heart!”. It was premiered in 1824.

About the piece

The opening Kyrie of one of the great Masses in history. The edition, 224 measures long, carries the solo voices, the choir and a violin part.

How to prepare it

This is an advanced work: it needs a large, well-trained choir and experienced soloists. The range demands are high (the choir sopranos span D4–A5 (a twelfth)) and vocal stamina is a real factor. Work by sections and voices, learn the choir entrance first and leave the solo parts for last. The 2/2 pulse must stay constant: rehearse with a metronome before thinking about dynamics.

When to use it

It suits sacred concerts and solemn celebrations, and as a long-term project for a choir that wants to grow its repertoire.