Johann Sebastian Bach’s Mass in B Minor (German: H Moll Messe, h being “B” natural in German musical notation). Performed by the Netherlands Bach Society.
Although the Mass in B Minor was probably not performed in Bach’s lifetime (he completed it in around 1749), it is today considered as one of Bach’s greatest works. More than that, it is considered as one of the greatest choral works in Western music. Forkel, one of Bach’s first biographers, and Haydn both owned copies. Liszt called it the pinnacle of Western civilisation.
In the comments’ section, people still express awe and wonder at the scope of this work. Many movements stand out: the Kyrie Eleison, Et Incarnatus Est, Crucifixus, Et Resurrexit, Sanctus, Dona Nobis Pacem. Bearing in mind that Bach adapted the themes for most of this work from previous pieces, their resonance and splendour here highlight his musical genius. His themes could be adapted for any use, and as a composer with exacting standards, he would often revise and improve his work.
Since many often perform Bach at Easter, let the Mass in B Minor make your list!
