The 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: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
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 masterpiece, captivating audiences with its rich harmonies and majestic melodies. Over time, it branched into two distinct forms: the liturgical mass, intended for church services, and the concert mass, designed for secular venues.

Spanning a remarkable two millennia, "The Origins and Ascendancy of the Concert Mass" delves into the intricate origins and profound meanings of liturgical texts. It defines the concert mass as a unique genre, exploring the reasons behind its split from its liturgical roots. Through vivid examples, the book showcases composers' gradual appropriation of the mass as a powerful vehicle for personal expression on weighty social and political issues.

By the close of the twentieth century, the concert mass had become a repository for a diverse array of theological and political ideas. It had transcended its original purpose and evolved into a platform for composers to convey their deepest thoughts, beliefs, and aspirations. The mass had become a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite people across different cultures and generations.

In conclusion, the mass is an extraordinary musical form that has withstood the test of time. Its evolution from a cycle of medieval chants to a concertized masterpiece is a testament to the resilience and creativity of human expression. Through its rich history and evolving nature, the mass has become a symbol of unity, spirituality, and social change, resonating with audiences around the world.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367552954