Aged only 17, Schubert conducted his first complete Mass setting, in F major, D. 105, in September 1814, gaining the approval of his former teacher Antonio Salieri.

An amazingly accomplished work for so young a composer, it follows Classical precedents, while already giving glimpses of Schubert’s special lyrical gifts. It also makes effective use, particularly in the forward-looking Sanctus, of the vocal soloists, choir and an orchestra rich in wind and brass including three trombones.

The Mass in B flat major, D. 324, composed the following year and like its predecessor scaled for liturgical performance, similarly combines beauty with splendour.

Schubert’s Masses Nos. 2, 4 and 6 are available on 8570864 and 8570381.