Beethoven's Mass in C major, op 86

Handel's Coronation Anthems

Beethoven was commissioned to compose the MAss in C Major, op 86, for Prince Nikolaus Esterhazy II in 1807.  The mass, scored for four vocal soloists, choir and orchestra, was premiered that year by the Prince's musical forces in Eisenstadt (pictured).  Beethoven performed parts of it in his 1808 concert featuring the premieres of four major works including his 5th Symphony.

Handel was commissioned to compose the Coronation Anthems, of which the best known is Zadok the Priest, for the coronation of George II in 1727.  They have been used at every coronation since including most recently that of King Charles III in 2023.