For SATB Voices, Cantor, Assembly and Organ with opt. Breass Quintet and Timpani
By Philip W. J. Stopford
Philip Stopford's new Mass setting for assembly, cantor, SATB voices and organ was commissioned for St. Luke the Evangelist Church in Richmond Heights, Missouri, to commemorate the parish's Centennial. It is a complete setting: Penitential Act (four options), Gloria (through composed), Sprinkling Rite, Gospel Acclamations (Alleluia and Lenten acclamations), Universal Prayer, Eucharistic Acclamations and Lamb of God. Latin settings of the Gloria, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei are also included. While Mr. Stopford's compositional style has the broad sweep of English church music, his flair for melody keeps it accessible for assembly. Movements such as the Holy, Holy are set creatively and will remain fresh after years of singing. Parts for brass quintet and timpani on the major movements add to a festive rendition.