Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

This is an easy review to write. Firstly because it is an excellent performance of a popular choral piece and, secondly, because only a couple of months ago we reviewed this as part of the splendid 'Complete Haydn Masses' boxed set. We enjoyed it in its box and now, as volume one of a series of 'Haydn Masses' it looks like the set is to be released in installments for those who either do not want all of Haydn's Masses or who would rather stagger the payment, even though the boxed set is staggeringly good value. Still, we do not object to hearing Haydn again, particularly when he is given such good treatment under the baton of J. Owen Burdick. The Trinity Choir is a professional outfit based in Manhattan. The choral singing is first class and we also enjoyed all four soloists: Ann Hoyt (soprano), Luthien Brackett (alto), Stephen Sands (tenor), and Richard Lippold (bass). Instrumental accompaniment comes courtesy of the REBEL Baroque Orchestra. Together with the 'Missa Cellensis', the 'Stabat Mater' of 1767 was one of the first sacred works that Haydn composed in his new position of Kapellmeister of the Esterhazy court. The range of emotions experienced by Mary the mother of Jesus as she watched her beloved Son die on the Cross are expressed through a correspondingly wide range of musical techniques from the heartfelt sorrow of the opening "Stabat Mater Dolorosa" to the optimism of the final "Paradisi Gloria'. This is a praiseworthy release, all the more so at the usual Naxos super-budget price although we still think the full set is better value.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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