Modal Mass

- Calvert Shenk, revised by Adam Taylor

PDF Sample

Use: General
Required Resources: cantor, SATB choir, soprano descant, congregation, organ
Language: English / Greek / Latin New 2010 Translation

Calvert Shenk set the Ordinary of the Mass in a way which both facilitates the congregation's participation and maintains musical worthiness. The Mass parts (Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Mysterium fidei, Amen and Agnus Dei) are written in different ecclesiastical modes (IV, I, V, V, V, and VIII, respectively). All use the 2010 English translation, except the Kyrie and the refrain of the Gloria ("Gloria, gloria! In excelsis Deo"). The a cappella choral writing is clean and fresh, and generally alternates with accompanied congregational sections or refrains that are embellished with choral harmonies. The music flows quite freely from choir to congregation; the people's parts are easily sung. A reproducible melody-line version for the congregation is included, although not absolutely necessary for performance. Mr. Shenk wedded the sound of ancient modalities with the fresh harmonies and structure of more current liturgical practice — a perfect example of preserving the treasures of the past in functional contemporary forms.

In this edition Adam Taylor has done a wonderful job of modifying the late Calvert Shenk's original setting to use the new English translation of the Mass, while at the same time keeping completely faithful to the original music.