Composer

:

Jean Langlais

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Compose Date

:

1954

Average_duration

:

17:54

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Jean Langlais was a French composer and organist who lived from 1907 to 1991. He was known for his contributions to the organ repertoire and his sacred choral music. One of his most famous works is the Missa Salve Regina, which was composed in 1954. The Missa Salve Regina is a setting of the Ordinary of the Mass, which includes the Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. It is scored for four-part mixed choir, organ, and optional brass and timpani. The work is divided into six movements, each of which has its own distinct character and mood. The first movement is the Kyrie, which is marked by a sense of urgency and supplication. The choir sings a simple melody that is repeated and developed throughout the movement. The organ provides a rich harmonic background, and the brass and timpani add a sense of grandeur and power. The second movement is the Gloria, which is a joyful and exuberant celebration of God's glory. The choir sings in a lively and rhythmic style, with frequent changes in tempo and dynamics. The organ provides a lively accompaniment, and the brass and timpani add a sense of festivity and celebration. The third movement is the Sanctus, which is a solemn and reverent hymn of praise. The choir sings in a chant-like style, with long, sustained notes and simple harmonies. The organ provides a gentle accompaniment, and the brass and timpani add a sense of majesty and awe. The fourth movement is the Benedictus, which is a joyful and exultant hymn of praise. The choir sings in a lively and rhythmic style, with frequent changes in tempo and dynamics. The organ provides a lively accompaniment, and the brass and timpani add a sense of festivity and celebration. The fifth movement is the Agnus Dei, which is a prayer for mercy and peace. The choir sings in a gentle and supplicatory style, with simple harmonies and a sense of longing. The organ provides a gentle accompaniment, and the brass and timpani add a sense of solemnity and reverence. The final movement is the Ite, Missa Est, which is a joyful and triumphant conclusion to the Mass. The choir sings in a lively and rhythmic style, with frequent changes in tempo and dynamics. The organ provides a lively accompaniment, and the brass and timpani add a sense of grandeur and power. Overall, the Missa Salve Regina is a beautiful and powerful work that showcases Langlais's skill as a composer and his deep faith as a Catholic. Its six movements offer a range of moods and emotions, from supplication and reverence to joy and celebration. It is a fitting tribute to the Mass, which is the central act of worship in the Catholic Church.

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