Missa KV167 - Trinitatis Mass

The “Missa in C major” K. 167 is Mozart’s only mass to bear a dedication in its title: “Missa in honorem SS:mae Trinitatis”. Thus the work is connected to a specific occasion which so far has not been able to be determined. The autograph is dated “Giugno 1773”, 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 “Missa in C major” 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.