Haydn Nelson Mass

Haydn Nelson Mass
Mackinnon-Botti New Work* world premiere
Schoenberg Ode to Napoleon Buonaparte, Op. 41
Haydn Mass No. 11 in D minor, ‘Nelson Mass’, Hob. XXII:II
Annie Dutoit-Argerich narrator
Alessandro Mackinnon-Botti beatboxer*
Marios Papadopoulos piano/conductor
Oxford Philharmonic Choir
The evening begins with a world premiere by Mackinnon-Botti, a contemporary composition that promises to challenge and inspire, featuring the composer himself as beatboxing soloist. This is followed by Schoenberg’s Ode to Napoleon Buonaparte, delivering a dramatic exploration of political power, brought to life through a vivid orchestral and vocal arrangement. The concert concludes with Haydn’s Nelson Mass, a monumental work combining magnificence and emotional depth, showcasing the brilliance of both the orchestra and choir.
Pre-concert talk given by Sir Nicholas Kenyon at 18:30
Music in time of war
Lord Byron’s text denouncing Napoleon was set by Schoenberg during the second world war; Haydn’s powerful Mass was written as Napoleon’s French navy was defeated by the British under Lord Nelson. Nicholas Kenyon explores the varied fortunes of music during times of conflict.
22 Jan 2026
Tickets: £15, £28, £38, £48
(Students from £5)
Duration: 120 min
Venue: Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street
(Students from £5)
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