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Messe Solennelle (1999) |
SATB choir and organ (with 2nd organ ad libitum) - 20'
This mass was commissioned by Manchester Cathedral for the year 2000. It is written for choir and organ (2 organs ad lib.), and is the third mass by Hakim, the preceding ones being Missa Resurrectionis for soprano solo and Missa Redemptionis for choir a cappella. It follows the French tradition of the 19th and 20th centuries' Messe Solennelles represented by composers such as Widor, Vierne or Langlais, especially with regard to the antiphonal and soloistic character of the Grand-Orgue. Apart from a few references to Gregorian or secular sources, the free thematic material is developed in a tonally expanded harmony. The general atmosphere of this mass is of a festive and joyful thanksgiving.
First performance: 5 March 2000, Manchestter Cathedral, Manchester Cathedral Choir, Christpoher Stokes, conductor