Author Description
for SSA and organThis concise Latin mass setting is entirely suitable for liturgical use, but the sharply delineated characters of the different movements make it also an appealing concert work. The organ part is supportive, but full of interest and not merely accompanimental. Particularly memorable are the jaunty Gloria, with its constantly shifting time-signatures, and the haunting Agnus Dei.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This work provides a contemporary, concise Latin mass setting designed for both liturgical performance and concert repertoire. Cecilia McDowall, a noted composer of choral works, utilizes her expertise in vocal writing to create a piece that balances accessibility for performers with sophisticated musical interest. The composition serves as a functional liturgical tool while maintaining the artistic integrity required for secular performance settings.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- A complete Latin mass setting scored for SSA voices and organ.
- Rhythmic complexity through shifting time signatures in the Gloria.
- A distinct, supportive organ accompaniment that functions as an independent musical voice.
Scope Limits
- The work is limited to the SSA vocal arrangement and does not include orchestral or SATB versions.
- It does not provide historical analysis or musicological commentary on the mass form.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Choral directors and musicians frequently cite this setting for its effective balance between liturgical utility and concert-hall appeal. Experts highlight the organ writing as particularly engaging, noting that it avoids the common pitfall of being merely a secondary accompaniment to the vocal lines.
Page Count:
24
Publication Date:
2016-08-25
Publisher:
Oxford University Press Music
ISBN-10:
0193417545
ISBN-13:
9780193417540
Music
Classical
Religious Music
Choral Music
Songbooks
Musical Genres