Missa Brevis for Choir and Organ
This setting of the Mass is strongly influenced by jazz, using many of the rhythms and harmonies of the genre, as well as funk and blues styles. The choir is accompanied by the organ, which has a colourful and lively role similar to a jazz ensemble. Much of the text is celebratory and joyful, and the music especially reflects this in the Gloria and Sanctus. The Mass text also contains passages of fear, anger and personal pleading, especially in the Kyrie and Agnus Dei. Here the music is at its most intense and anguished, with the Mass ending in an impassioned cry for peace. While a Jazz Mass may be thought of as a light or fun composition, this setting balances joy and gladness with seriousness and sorrow.
There is also a version with the addition of brass quintet (2 trumpets, horn, trombone, tuba)
It was premiered by the choir of All Saints Fulham, conducted by Jonathan Wikeley on 5th November 2023.
Listen to their performance here:
Kyrie (3'03)
Gloria (4'01)
Sanctus (2'51)
Benedictus (2'51)
Agnus Dei (4'27)
Duration: c.17 minutes
This setting of the Mass is strongly influenced by jazz, using many of the rhythms and harmonies of the genre, as well as funk and blues styles. The choir is accompanied by the organ, which has a colourful and lively role similar to a jazz ensemble. Much of the text is celebratory and joyful, and the music especially reflects this in the Gloria and Sanctus. The Mass text also contains passages of fear, anger and personal pleading, especially in the Kyrie and Agnus Dei. Here the music is at its most intense and anguished, with the Mass ending in an impassioned cry for peace. While a Jazz Mass may be thought of as a light or fun composition, this setting balances joy and gladness with seriousness and sorrow.
There is also a version with the addition of brass quintet (2 trumpets, horn, trombone, tuba)
It was premiered by the choir of All Saints Fulham, conducted by Jonathan Wikeley on 5th November 2023.
Listen to their performance here:
Kyrie (3'03)
Gloria (4'01)
Sanctus (2'51)
Benedictus (2'51)
Agnus Dei (4'27)
Duration: c.17 minutes