Schubert Mass in A-flat by Mendelssohn, Bach, J. S., Schumann, Schubert, Minn (2023/2023), Surmast Direttur Gregory Batsleer, Stephanie Gonley, The Queen's Hall, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Rich and imaginative choral classics to console and inspire, from four exceptional vocal soloists and the hugely accomplished SCO Chorus under conductor Gregory Batsleer. Mendelssohn looks back fondly to Bach in the dignity and power of his gentle choral cantata, while Schumann conjures a haunting choral evocation of drowsing into slumber. Schubert devoted as much craft and care to his music for church as he did to his songs and chamber music, though it’s far less well known. His Mass No. 5 is a visionary work of transcendent beauty and warmth. In between, SCO violinists Stephanie Gonley and Marcus Barcham Stevens demonstrate a dynamic musical dialogue in Bach’s thrilling Double Concerto.