Beethoven: Mass in C; Mendelssohn: Hymn of Praise (Symphony No 2)

Mendelssohn’s Symphony No 2 Hymn of Praise was his most ambitious symphonic achievement. After its première it became one of his most popular compositions, although it is less well-known these days. Its texts are taken principally from the Bible and feature the praise of God and tell of mankind’s progress from darkness to enlightenment.
Beethoven's Mass in C was composed in a period of prodigious output when he was in his mid-30s. His music was being received ecstatically and his fame and reputation blossomed across Europe. His masterpiece is still
appreciated by critics today although is not often performed.
Hertfordshire Chorus, directed by David Temple MBE, is one of finest large choirs in the UK, renowned both for the quality of their classical choral music and for commissioning and performing new works by contemporary composers.