Rehearing Haydn's Muted Winds of War of 1798: Missa in Angustiis in D Minor Hob. XXII:11 (Lord Nelson Mass)

Abstract

Haydn’s choice of title “Missa in angustiis” for this important example of his mature period has invited unresolved speculation. This article attempts an admittedly equally speculative rehearing of his most popular mass ripe with amazing innovation. It examines what, if any, coded messages Freemason genius Haydn, outwardly a devout Catholic of orthodox probity, may have attempted to convey to savant audiences as he had done elsewhere. Here, he used surprising dynamism and drama, not least by groundbreaking trumpet fanfares and other unorthodox treatments, given the rare austerity of time and resources employed. Few will doubt that this music is commentary – but of what? Unassuming, well-adjusted, diplomatic Haydn seemed devoid of an agenda aside from his music – or was he? In an unprecedented time of social and military overthrows and paradigmatic change, Haydn’s subtle hints advocate near imperceptibly the viability and legitimacy of another reality by musical means.

Keywords: Franz Joseph Haydn, Lord Nelson Mass, Missa in angustiis, war of 1798