Rossini Petite Messe Solennelle

Date: August 11, 2010

Is there a concert worthy substitute for a harmonium for use in Rossini's Petite messe Solennelle? I cannot find a Debain Harmonium anywhere nearby to rent and I don't want to use a poor quality 19th century American type. That doesn't seem acceptiple for the concert stage. Any thoughts?

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John Howell on August 11, 2010 8:55pm

Hi, Gerald. Harmoniums were just discussed on another List (although I can't remember which one), and I learned quite a bit. Why in the world would you want not to use an American type harmonium? Poor quality, sure, I can see that being a problem, but if you can find one that's in tune and sounds good, why not?

When we did Britten's War Requien here, we couldn't find one that the owner was willing to lend us, either, so we ended up using the small organetto used by our Early Music Ensemble, not a reed organ, but it supported the children's choir rather nicely.

But a harmonium is just a reed organ, when all's said and done, so why not see what you can find that can give you that kind of sound?

All the best,

John

Floyd Slotterback on August 12, 2010 4:20am

When I performed this wonderful work we used a parlor pump organ. Be sure your player has durable legs!

Michael Zaugg on August 12, 2010 4:24am

hi - I have done the work several times with accordion!!

The instrument provides intimacy, "breath" and French originality. Especially the Preludio Religioso becomes a hauntingly beautiful piece. Seating the player in the middle up front, provides as well visually a nice image. Audiences love to watch the instrument!

Finding a good player requires some research though!

In fact, I am doing the work in that set-up again this coming November.

I can send you an mp3 recording of some sections, so you can get an idea about the sound.

regards,

Michael

Timothy Mount on August 13, 2010 5:43pm

Dear Gerald,
I've conducted it twice, using pretty funky harmoniums both times. I'm not a fan of electronic keyboards but I think, in this day and age, you might be able to find a suitable "stop" on one. I feel the harmonium sound is important to preserve.
Yours,
Tim Mount
Prof Emeritus, Stony Brook University

Jerome Hoberman on August 13, 2010 9:03pm

I've used syths successfully several times, in locations where harmoniums simply are not available. But you might try a US Army surplus field harmonium -- they're wonderfully wheezy, and they fold up, too! Ideal for Kurt Weill, but might work for Rossini.

Best regards,

Jerome Hoberman

Music Director/Conductor, The Hong Kong Bach Choir & Orchestra

Principal Conductor, Baguio Cathedral International Music Festival (Philippines)

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