It is widely known that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a Freemason, having been initiated into the “Zur Wohltätigkeit” (“Beneficence”) Lodge of Vienna in 1784. What is not as well known is that Brother Mozart wrote music specifically for Masonic ceremonies. These pieces are seldom heard, even in a non-masonic context.

But to hear one performed as part of the actual Masonic ceremony for which it was intended is, for the general public, almost unheard of. This is why it is so exciting to announce that the highly regarded, fifty voice SATB Chorus, Portsmouth Pro Musica, will perform Mozart’s Officer Installation Anthem during the officer installation ceremony of St. John’s Lodge, #1, of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, in December.

This is a very rare (almost unprecedented) opportunity to hear the piece as Mozart intended, that is, as part of the ceremony to install Masonic officers, in their full Masonic regalia, into their respective chairs of office. The pageantry and music will be truly fascinating to Masons and non-masons alike.

The details:

The Installation of St. John’s Lodge, #1, Masonic Officers, December, 6th, at 2:00 pm EST, Masonic Temple, 351 Middle Street, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. This free event is semi-public, meaning that reservations will be required. Please contact alan_ammann@hotmail.com for reservations.