Haydn's last great sacred work, the Harmoniemesse combines liturgical solemnity with dazzling orchestral writing, distinguished by its masterful use of wind instruments. In contrast, the Missa brevis "St. John of God", intimate and radiant, reveals a more contemplative expression of faith. At the helm of Les Arts Florissants, William Christie brings equal authority and poetry to these two facets of the composer's art, supported by a quartet of oustanding soloists.