Notes/Review
The Penitential Mass for Eight Voices is a Latin
Mass setting without Gloria, primarily intended for the seasons of Advent and
Lent, although it may be used at other times of the year, perhaps where the
Gloria is said. There are three movements: Kyrie, Sanctus & Benedictus
and Agnus Dei.
The Mass is technically rather easier to
perform that it might look at first sight! It does require, however,
sopranos who can sing up to Top C. The music is dramatic and has an
international flavour, particularly in the Agnus Dei where some of the melodic
line has a distinctly Middle Eastern sound. The Mass is dedicated to
Patrick Russill and the Choir of the London Oratory.
The following review appeared in Choir &
Organ Magazine - November/December 2002 issue
".... Being penitential, the Mass has no
Gloria, but all the other movements are carefully crafted and use the
possibilities of the eight-part texture well. The part writing poses no
note difficulty, although you'll need singers capable of sustaining high
tessitura notes and sopranos capable of top Cs. The harmonic language is
modal in flavour but accessible, with a great deal of beauty."
(Nicholas Danks, 2002)
Penitential
Mass for Eight Voices
received its liturgical Premiere in London on
17th February 2008 at Farm Street Church. CLICK
HERE to read some of the written comments received by the
composer since the premiere
(Kyrie only)