Concertgebouw Orchestra & Klaus Mäkelä: Beethoven's Missa solemnis

About the Event

Beethoven reached soaring heights with the Missa solemnis. Let yourself be whisked away by the Concertgebouw Orchestra, under the baton of Klaus Mäkelä, alongside the Netherlands Radio Choir and four acclaimed soloists.

Klaus Mäkelä
With chief conductor designate Klaus Mäkelä at the helm, the Concertgebouw Orchestra aims for the sky with Beethoven’s Missa solemnis. While Beethoven might not typically be associated with religious music, this Mass hits its mark, proving that Bach wasn’t the final authority in this genre. The work's grandiose orchestration, mesmerizing interplay between chorus and orchestra, and profound spiritual intensity can deeply move even staunch non‐believers. Beethoven dedicated four years to the Mass, viewing it as his greatest achievement.

Beethoven's Missa solemnis
Despite not being overtly religious, Beethoven’s Missa solemnis focuses not on submission, but human faith. Like his renowned Ninth Symphony from the same era, this composition embodies Beethoven’s aspiration for a dignified existence for all. Its message remains pressing and relevant, rendering the Missa solemnis a timeless masterpiece.