Origins and Ascendancy of the Concert Mass

The mass is an extraordinary musical form that has survived and flourished, expanding beyond its origins as a cycle of medieval chants to become a concertized and bifurcated genre. By the early twentieth century, two forms of mass existed: the liturgical mass composed for church services and the concert mass composed for secular venues. The book explores the origins and meanings of liturgical texts, defines the concert mass, explains how and why the split occurred, and provides examples of composers' gradual appropriation of the genre for personal expression on serious issues. By the end of the twentieth century, the concert mass had become a repository for an eclectic range of theological and political ideas.

Format: Hardback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The mass is a truly remarkable musical genre that has defied the tides of time and emerged as a shining beacon of artistic expression. While many other Western art music genres from medieval times have faded into obscurity, the mass has not only survived but thrived. This remarkable transformation was driven by a multitude of historical forces that permeated religious, secular, and musical realms.

Originally conceived as a cycle of medieval chants, the mass underwent a remarkable metamorphosis. It evolved into a concertized form, captivating audiences with its rich melodies and harmonies. Over time, it branched into two distinct types: the liturgical mass, intended for church services, and the concert mass, designed for secular venues.

Throughout its evolution, the mass has been shaped by a myriad of factors. In the religious sphere, it played a crucial role in the preservation and dissemination of sacred texts. It became a vehicle for expressing religious devotion and spirituality, allowing composers to convey profound messages and emotions through their music.

In the secular realm, the mass also found its place. It became a platform for composers to explore new musical ideas and express their artistic vision on serious social and political issues. The concert mass allowed composers to break free from the constraints of traditional liturgical music and experiment with different styles, harmonies, and rhythms.

As Western societies transitioned from their Christian roots to become increasingly religiously plural and politically secular, the mass continued to evolve. Composers adapted their compositions to reflect the changing cultural landscape, incorporating elements of different musical traditions and styles. The result was a diverse and eclectic range of mass compositions that resonated with audiences of all backgrounds.

By the early twentieth century, the concert mass had firmly established itself as a prominent genre in Western music. It showcased the immense creativity and versatility of composers, who pushed the boundaries of musical expression and explored new realms of creativity. The mass became a repository for an eclectic range of theological and political ideas, reflecting the changing social and intellectual climate of the time.

As the twentieth century drew to a close, the concert mass had undergone a remarkable transformation. It had evolved into a multifaceted genre that encompassed a wide range of musical styles, from classical to contemporary. It continued to serve as a platform for composers to express their personal beliefs and engage with social and political issues.

In conclusion, the mass is a testament to the enduring power of music and its ability to transcend time and cultural boundaries. It has survived and flourished as a result of a complex interplay of historical forces, religious devotion, artistic innovation, and social change. The mass has become a symbol of unity, spirituality, and artistic excellence, captivating audiences with its beauty and emotional impact. Its legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of musicians and composers.

Weight: 506g
Dimension: 161 x 243 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367552930