Leonard Bernstein's work "Mass" continues to spark debate because of its title, as it is not a traditional Roman Catholic Mass. Rather, it is a politically motivated, satirical composition commissioned by the widow of assassinated US President John F. Kennedy.
First performed in 1971, the work conveys a universal message of peace that resonates particularly strongly in light of current social crises and the Vietnam War. Conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin, together with the Philadelphia Orchestra, has now created an impressive interpretation of this rarely performed, sonorous work. He emphasizes that Bernstein's versatility and creative output are especially evident in this composition.