Frank Martin's Mass for Double Choir
  • kevinfkevinf
    Posts: 1,190
    Frank Martin (1890-1974), of Swiss origin, but lived in the Netherlands for much of his life, wrote this mass in 1922. He suggests the influence of chant and in his written commentary finds chants as a seminal influence in his life.

    The Agnus Dei:
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQTMrs0DMsI

    I have known this mass setting for a number of years, having been introduced to it as an undergraduate. It is very difficult in so many ways, but stunning in it complexity and harmonic movement. It haunts me as I seem to return to listening to it about once a year. Enjoy and look up other parts of it on youtube, particularly the Sanctus.
    Thanked by 2CHGiffen Heath
  • Randolph Nichols
    Posts: 398
    Thanks for this. I was in high school when Martin’s music and name first came to my attention. Someone gave me an LP recording of André Previn playing jazz on one side and modern classics on the other. One piece by Martin, Nocturne if I remember correctly, was included (as was Barber’s Excursions and Hindemith’s Sonata No. 2). Martin demanded all I had but it was worth the effort.

    For organist-directors lacking singers who can master the Mass above, at least try his Agnus Dei pour orgue (Bärenreiter-Ausgabe 6213) which is based on this movement. It’s haunting.
Add a Comment