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The
autobiographies of composers are always
of interest in music history, particularly
their comments and reflections about
the universe, the creative process and
their own works; thus, we include Ugis
Praulins' reflections upon images, feelings
and mood in his compositions.
A Mass is possibly the most basic expression
of the Roman Catholic beliefs. It was
a challenge to write an a cappella mass
for a choir and to retain attention
by the singers' voices alone, just as
it was done during the Renaissance.
I wished to attain the clarity of the
mass of the 15th fir 16th century, to
do it without over-whelming force or
volume. Could I do ft without hiding
behind an orchestra which always sounds
good or interesting, or even tmpresslvet
MISSA RIGENSIS (Riga Mass) consists
of the five tradition! parts for a mass,
KYRIE - prayer for mercy;
GLORIA - praise to God
CREDO - affirmation of the classical
religious tenets of Jesus Christ;
SANCTUS - blessing and praise;
AGNUS DEI-absolution of sins, request
for mercy and peace (Jesus took our
sins upon Himself). EPIGRAMMAS
(Epigrams) is commentary following
the Mass. There are observations and
reflections (See how the Just One
is dying), supplication (Domine) and
yearning (Sicut cervus), a believer's
tender and loving address to Jesus
(Recordare, Jesu pie) and understanding
the soul is safe in God's hands
(Justorum animae in manu Dei sunt).
Electronic sounds? In church? It does
not trouble me, just as artificial
heat does not, nor do electric lights
in place of candles. The only concern
is being familiar enough with the
acoustics of the cathedral in order
to explore them more fully with the
acoustical instruments, but that is
only a matter of time. It is crucial
that the sound fit the intent.
MAGNIFICAT is the hymn of the Virgin
Mary, according to St. Luke (My soul
doth magnify the Lord), upon her arrival
at the home of her cousin Elizabeth.
Mary is overwhelmed by God's revelations
to her, grateful to God for being
chosen and joyful about the mission
given her - Immaculate Conception
is still one of the greatest mysteries,
wonders. This text is used in Roman
Catholic vespers and also in the evensong
of the Anglican Church. Many composers,
including the geniuses of the Renaissance
and the baroque period, have composed
magnificata; Palestrina created thirty-five.
The Magnificat is unique. It is the
conclusion of the Old Testament and
the beginning of the New Testament.
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