Frank Martin's style of composition is characterized by elements of French Impressionism, modern tonality and expressive musical language. His double choir a cappella mass was composed between 1922 and 1926 but it was not performed until 1963 in Hamburg. It has been a great favourite with capable choirs since its first publication by Bärenreiter in 1972 (BA 5419). It can be performed equally well in the concert hall and the church.

This first ever Urtext edition is based on the autograph score as well as on previously disregarded preliminary studies. The preface and Critical Commentary provide an insight into the genesis and history of the work. The larger format ensures a clearly improved readability.