What is the Mass in B Minor?
A masterpiece that took 15 years to complete, Bach’s Mass in B Minor is considered a monumental testament to the composer’s skill. Bach composed the first two parts, the Kyrie and Gloria (known together as the Missa), in 1733 and dedicated them to the new King of Poland, Augustus III. When he presented a copy of the music to Augustus, he included a petition to be given a court title-making the Missa quite a portfolio! And, eventually, a successful one: Augustus made Bach his court composer in 1736.
