Missa brevis, for mixed choir and piano

I originally composed the Missa Brevis in 2007 at the request of the Vivaldi Choir and its conductor, Óscar Boada, for white (treble) voices and organ. A few years later, I created a version for string orchestra, orchestrating the organ part for strings. Oscar Boada also requested an arrangement for cobla, the traditional Catalan ensemble.

Eighteen years later, I have finally created a new version for mixed choir and piano, giving it greater depth by adding new counterpoint and expanding its programming possibilities.

The Missa Brevis offers many expressive possibilities. In just thirteen minutes, the piece conveys a wide range of emotions.

The Kyrie is intense and profound, yet brief. Its thematic material is recalled at the end of the piece.

The Gloria is joyful, open, and brilliant, featuring numerous rhythm and metre changes —predominantly 5/8 and 7/8. The central section is more lyrical and remains in 7/8 throughout.

The Sanctus is solemn and majestic, connecting with the much more melodic, sweet, and contrapuntal Benedictus. A fast fugal section brings the movement to a close, blending the two themes brilliantly.

The Agnus Dei provides an opportunity for contemplation and reflection, with the choral harmonies building and releasing tension gently. The piece peacefully closes with a return to the Kyrie theme, which is now much more serene, as it fades away.