Michele Mariotti conducts both versions of Rossini’s Petite messe solennelle in Rome

In a rare artistic undertaking, Michele Mariotti, music director of Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, will conduct two distinct versions of Gioachino Rossini’s revered Petite messe solennelle in October 2026. This event highlights the dual nature of Rossini’s late masterpiece, showcasing its evolution from an intimate chamber composition to a more expansive orchestral setting.

The initial performance, scheduled for October 17 at Teatro Costanzi, will present the orchestral version of the work, featuring full orchestra, chorus, and soloists. Five days later, on October 22, Mariotti will lead the original scoring of the piece in the Basilica di San Vitale, where the music is performed with two pianos and harmonium, accompanied by chorus and solo voices. Both concerts will feature the same solo quartet: soprano Emőke Baráth, countertenor Carlo Vistoli, tenor Dmitry Korchak, and bass Michele Pertusi.

Rossini’s Petite messe solennelle occupies a unique place in his oeuvre, marking a profound exploration of spiritual themes during his final creative phase. Composed after his retirement from the operatic stage, it stands alongside his Péchés de vieillesse, a collection reflecting his late compositional voice. The original version was first heard privately in Paris in 1864, dedicated to Count Alexis Pillet-Will and his wife Louise. The posthumous orchestral adaptation debuted in 1869, broadening the work’s sonic palette and public reach.

Mariotti regards the piece as a deeply human meditation on the relationship between the divine and mortal experience, capturing a spectrum from solace and faith to existential anxiety. This duality is expressed through Rossini’s blending of solemn liturgical elements with passionate, lyrical passages, creating a work both enigmatic and emotionally compelling.

The choice of venues for the performances underscores this contrast: the grandeur of Teatro Costanzi suits the orchestral version’s expansive sound, while the Basilica di San Vitale’s intimate acoustic environment complements the chamber scoring’s subtlety. Pianists Marco Forgione and Michele Reali will share duties on the two pianos, with Alessia Capoccia on the harmonium for the original version.

Mariotti’s affinity for Rossini’s repertoire is well established. His direction of Tancredi at Teatro Costanzi earlier in 2026, alongside productions of several other Rossini operas, demonstrates his sustained commitment to the composer’s work. His leadership roles extend beyond Rome, notably as principal conductor of the Orchestra Sinfonica Nazionale della Rai since 2026, and as a member of the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia.

The soloists bring their own connections to Rossini and the Rome opera scene. Carlo Vistoli recently portrayed the title role in Tancredi under Mariotti’s baton. Dmitry Korchak returns to Rome following performances in Lohengrin and Sofia Coppola’s La traviata. Emőke Baráth has maintained an ongoing relationship with the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma since 2019, with roles spanning Gluck to Mozart and contemporary works. Michele Pertusi, a veteran of the house, has appeared in several major productions, including recent collaborations with Mariotti.

These performances offer audiences a rare opportunity to experience the Petite messe solennelle in its contrasting forms, enriching understanding of Rossini’s late style and his nuanced approach to sacred music. Entry is free but requires prior booking due to limited seating.

As Rossini’s final significant composition, the Petite messe solennelle encapsulates the composer’s late artistic introspection and mastery of diverse musical languages. Under Mariotti’s direction, the dual concerts promise to illuminate the work’s complex character and enduring appeal within the sacred music repertoire.