Composer

:

Herbert Howells

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Compose Date

:

1912

Average_duration

:

22:33

Movement_count

:

8

Movement ....

Herbert Howells' Mass in the Dorian Mode for chorus is a sacred choral work that was composed in 1912. The piece was premiered in the same year at St. Mary Redcliffe Church in Bristol, England. The Mass is written for four-part mixed choir, with the exception of the Gloria, which is written for six-part choir. The Mass is divided into five movements: Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. The Kyrie is a somber and introspective movement, with the choir singing in unison for the majority of the piece. The Gloria is a more joyful and celebratory movement, with the choir singing in six parts. The Sanctus is a bright and energetic movement, with the choir singing in four parts. The Benedictus is a more subdued movement, with the choir singing in three parts. The Agnus Dei is a solemn and contemplative movement, with the choir singing in four parts. The Mass in the Dorian Mode is characterized by its use of modal harmonies and its incorporation of traditional Gregorian chant melodies. Howells was heavily influenced by the English choral tradition, and this is evident in the Mass's use of rich harmonies and lush textures. The piece also features moments of dissonance and chromaticism, which add to its emotional depth. Overall, the Mass in the Dorian Mode is a beautiful and moving work that showcases Howells' skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the choral tradition. Its use of modal harmonies and Gregorian chant melodies give it a timeless quality that continues to resonate with audiences today.

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