CHORAL MUSIC

Missa Brevis
Program Notes

For centuries, composers have set the sacred text of the Mass Ordinary to music. Having sung or played hundreds of "Masses" my entire life, I decided it was finally time to set these hallowed prayers to a musical setting all my own.

The voice and the drum are the world's two most ancient instruments. I feel that these two sounds are perfectly suited to each other and enhance one another quite naturally. In the Missa Brevis the percussion section caries a prominent roll. Scored for timpani, vibraphone, cymbals, bells, chimes, drums and gongs, I had once considered calling the piece Missa Ritma !

The work is divided into five movements. The Kyrie, Gloria and Agnus Dei employ fantastic rhythmic interplay between the chorus and orchestra, and the "batterie." On the other hand, the Sanctus and Benedictus are much more serene and introspective, giving a sense of balance to the entire work. The piece is sung entirely in Latin which is not only traditional, but emphasizes the spirituality and ritualistic quality I tried to achieve in this Missa Brevis.

• View a sample of the score
• Listen to Missa Brevis, I. Kyrie
• Listen to Missa Brevis, II. Gloria
• Listen to Missa Brevis, III. Sanctus
• Listen to Missa Brevis, IV. Benedictus
• Listen to Missa Brevis, V. Agnus Dei

Contact the composer for additional details about this piece.