The Mass in F minor, commissioned by the Imperial Court Chapel in Vienna (Wiener Hofmusikkappelle), was composed around 1868. Bruckner subjected the work to multiple revisions up until 1893 – a creative process typical of him. He conducted the premiere himself and even covered the considerable costs, after the Hofkappelle had initially dismissed the Mass as “unsingable.” Only gradually did the work establish itself in the repertoire.

The recording was made in 2025 and brings together an outstanding cast of highly acclaimed singers under the direction of a conductor of international standing. This EP is a pre-release of the full album SWR19168CD scheduled for February 13.