Missa Brevis

Posted by sara-garrard

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Female choir unaccompanied | Duration: 17 minutes | Difficulty: Moderate

  1. Kyrie Bristol University Schola Cantorum 4:45
  2. Gloria Bristol University Schola Cantorum 3:46
  3. Sanctus Bristol University Schola Cantorum 1:50
  4. Benedictus Bristol University Schola Cantorum 3:10
  5. Agnus Dei Bristol University Schola Cantorum 3:42

A setting of the Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Benedictus and Agnus Dei for women’s voices (or upper voices). This piece takes inspiration from medieval chant as well as other traditional and modern styles to create an experience that is meditative, moving and exciting. Missa Brevis is suitable for either church use or concert performance. It can be sung as a whole piece or sections performed individually.

The Kyrie is built around a sevenfold repetition of a single line and set of wordless chords. The Gloria and Sanctus are fast and upbeat, influenced by traditional Estonian work-songs to emphasise how the glory of God fills the heavens and the earth. The Benedictus is warm and peaceful, and the Agnus Dei the most emotionally charged and containing the most dissonance.

The choir is divided into SSAA with further divisi in the Benedictus and Agnus Dei, but often uses a unison or two-part texture. There are several opportunities for soloists or small groups to shine.

Performances: St Paul’s Church, Bristol, 28 March 2018 Bristol University Schola Cantorum conducted by Emma Hornby

Mass, sacred, choral, mass ordinary, short mass, church, liturgy.