Archduke Rudolf, the most devoted of Beethoven's patrons, was appointed Archbishop of Olmutz and the ordination was set for March 1820. A year earlier, Beethoven began work on a Mass, to be performed at that ceremony. However, this composition took on epic proportions and it was not until 1824 that the Mass in D, Op 123 (Missa Solemnis) was completed.

Tonight's performance, conducted by Sir Colin Davis in St David's Hall, Cardiff, is introduced by Humphrey Burton. In an illuminating conversation before the performance, Sir Colin discusses his deep personal belief in this masterpiece.

Margaret Price (soprano) Alfreda Hodgson (contralto) Keith Lewis (tenor) Stafford Dean (bass)
Ardwyn Singers
BBC Welsh Chorus
Cardiff Polyphonic Choir
BBC Welsh Symphony Orchestra led by James Clark

BBC Wales