Haydn's eighth setting of the ordinary of the Mass was composed in 1782 for performance in Mariazell, Austria. The brief opening portion of the Gloria has been selected for this anthem, featuring Haydn's exuberant, straightforward homophonic choral writing true to the Classical period. The accompaniment is an approachable orchestral reduction for piano with optional trumpets and timpani. Accessible to most ensembles, this anthem offers choirs the exciting opportunity to sing an excerpt from a large-scale choral work.