Composer

:

Johan Helmich Roman

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Compose Date

:

1752

Average_duration

:

45:45

Johan Helmich Roman's Swedish Mass, also known as Missa Sueca, is a choral work that was composed in the mid-18th century. It was premiered in 1749 at the Storkyrkan Cathedral in Stockholm, Sweden. The Swedish Mass is a significant work in the history of Swedish music, as it was the first major choral work to be composed in the Swedish language. The Swedish Mass is divided into six movements, each of which is based on a different section of the Catholic Mass. The first movement is the Kyrie, which is a plea for mercy. The second movement is the Gloria, which is a hymn of praise. The third movement is the Credo, which is a statement of faith. The fourth movement is the Sanctus, which is a hymn of praise. The fifth movement is the Agnus Dei, which is a plea for mercy. The final movement is the Deo Gratias, which is a hymn of thanksgiving. The Swedish Mass is characterized by its use of polyphony, which is the simultaneous use of multiple independent melodies. Roman's use of polyphony in the Swedish Mass is particularly notable, as it was a departure from the homophonic style that was prevalent in Swedish music at the time. The Swedish Mass also features a prominent role for the choir, which is used to convey the text of the Mass in a clear and expressive manner. Overall, the Swedish Mass is a significant work in the history of Swedish music, as it helped to establish a distinct Swedish musical tradition. Its use of polyphony and its emphasis on the choir as a central element of the work have made it a lasting influence on Swedish choral music.

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