Composer

:

William Mathias

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Compose Date

:

1973

Average_duration

:

16:43

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

William Mathias' 'Missa brevis, Op. 64' is a choral work that was composed in 1972. It was premiered on 22nd June 1972 at St. David's Cathedral in Wales. The work is divided into five movements, namely Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. The 'Missa brevis' is characterized by its use of traditional choral techniques and harmonies, combined with modern compositional techniques. The Kyrie begins with a simple melody that is repeated and developed throughout the movement. The Gloria is a lively and energetic movement that features a call-and-response structure between the choir and organ. The Sanctus is a peaceful and reflective movement that features a soaring melody in the soprano section. The Benedictus is a slow and contemplative movement that features a solo quartet. The final movement, Agnus Dei, is a powerful and dramatic movement that features a repeated motif in the choir. The 'Missa brevis' is a relatively short work, lasting around 15 minutes in total. It is scored for SATB choir and organ, and is suitable for use in both liturgical and concert settings. The work is notable for its use of traditional choral techniques, such as polyphony and homophony, combined with modern compositional techniques, such as dissonance and irregular rhythms. Overall, William Mathias' 'Missa brevis, Op. 64' is a beautiful and powerful choral work that showcases the composer's skill in combining traditional and modern compositional techniques. Its premiere in 1972 was a significant event in the Welsh choral tradition, and it continues to be performed and enjoyed by choirs and audiences around the world.

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