Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus : Missa

The ìMissa in C majorî K. 167 is Mozartís only mass to bear a dedication in its title: ìMissa in honorem SS:mae Trinitatisî. Thus the work is connected to a specific occasion which so far has not been able to be determined. The autograph is dated ìGiugno 1773î, meaning that the work was most likely premiered on 5 June 1773 (Trinity Sunday).

The large instrumentation for orchestra consisting of two oboes, two clarions, two trumpets, timpani, two violins, double bass and organ reflects the solemnity of the occasion for which the mass was composed.

The ìMissa in C majorî shows a marked difference in comparison with previous masses; there is an absence of highly dramatic elements and stark contrasts. In addition the mood is decidedly solemn and a formal structure of the movements is adhered to.