Roman Missal Setting

Mass Setting for Easter

The Mass of the Immaculate Conception was written to be triumphant and joyful, both which remind me of the resurrection of Our Lord, Jesus Christ.

The melody of a song should reflect the words that is being sung, as well as the setting that it is being sung in. This Missal setting does both, especially in light of the Easter season. The introduction to the Gloria was written to build tension over the minor sixth (Lent), a brief pause of silence (the Triduum), and finally a loud and glorious "Glory to God ... " (Easter).

The Alleluia carries the same introduction, silence, and finally a triumphant, "Alleluia!"

The other Mass parts do not carry the same glory, other than the Great Amen. This is done with a purpose, for during the season of Lent, both the introduction and chorus melody and instrumental phrase is abstained from. So, I tried to incorporate the same liturgical abstaining in both the words of the Mass part as well as the musical and melodic parts.

The Gloria from this Mass setting (key of E):

Please note that this setting was originally composed in the key of A. It was then transposed down to the key of G. I believe that either of those keys bring out the true glory of the parts. I chose to transpose it down to E, though, from the request of a female music director. She believed that this would help most congregations sing this Mass setting.

This setting for the Roman Missal has been approved by the ICEL and the USCCB. Currently, I am aware of this Mass setting being used in parishes in the United States as well as in India.

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