In celebration of the 20th anniversary of the designation of the church as a Basilica and the inspiring work of the Mark Thallander Foundation, ChoralArt Masterworks will present two masterworks: Louis Vierne’s Messe Solennelle and Franz Schubert’s Mass in G.

Vierne’s Solemn Mass—scored for choir and two organs—is rarely performed due to the unique space it requires. The Basilica, with its dual organs, is one of the few venues capable of doing it justice. At the 1901 premiere in Paris’s Saint-Sulpice, the main organ was played by Charles-Marie Widor, with Vierne at the choir organ. This performance will feature Maine organists Randall Mullin and Scott Vaillancourt, performing on the magnificent Casavant organ in the gallery and the smaller choir organ at the front of the nave. Schubert’s Mass in G—composed when he was just 18—is beloved for its lyrical beauty, elegant simplicity, and expressive depth. Its graceful lines and transparent textures make it one of the most cherished choral works in the sacred repertoire.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience a magnificent setting, masterful choral artistry, and the majestic sounds of Vierne and Schubert.