for SATB and optional pianoThis setting of the Latin Missa brevis combines warmth and simple lyricism with youthful verve. It is highly accessible and there is a natural ease to the vocal lines. There are extended passages for SAB, and whilst the sopranos and altos occasionally divide, the tenors and basses are never required to do so. Missa Cantate will appeal to youth and adult choirs as a short concert work, or to church choirs looking for an alternative to more familiar mass settings.
Bob Chilcott (b.1955)
"The tenors and basses are often used as one voice here [in the Gloria], and when independent will not be too stretched enabling this to be used with choirs where tenors are a precious commodity. The Sanctus has a lovely naive feel and the Benedictus (in 7/8) is clear in both pattern and harmony. The improvisatory Agnus will be a revelation for any choir that dares try it." - The Organ August 07
"Sopranos divide a good deal, altos occasionally, but male voices are almost always in unison - a very useful formula for (typically unbalanced?) youth choirs. But Chilcott gives even these lower voices glimpses of glory. It is skilfully done. Bernstein's Mass stands behind some of this perhaps, and John Rutter's Gloria is not far away. But the Sanctus comes into its own with Chilcott's version of early American hymnody: he too has that authentic gift to be simple." - Peter Dale, Choir & Organ May 07
