Gioacchino Rossini called his Petite Messe “the last mortal Sin of my Old Age” – but the results are heavenly!
While it uses the text of the traditional mass, the music is pure opera – from outstanding solos to high-speed choruses.
The work was commissioned by a Parisian countess for her private chapel and had its premiere in 1864.
Peter Butterfield conducts the VPC performance in Rossini’s original (and favourite) orchestration: two grand pianos and a harmonium – though with 60 choristers instead of the composer’s original dozen.
Don’t miss this rare performance of an unusual work!

Festival seating (first come first serve).