VER A PERIOD of weeks, we’ve discussed the current system of replacing assigned Mass texts in the Ordinary Form, which violates liturgical law. 1 Priests wishing to allow their congregations to pray the actual prayers of the Mass have a solution in the Jogues Lectionary, the only pew book containing the full Vatican II propers in Latin & English.
But what about the music?
Many parishes use the Lalemant Propers (very simple); Simple English Propers (fairly simple); or Graduale Parvum (simple). 2 Yet, when it comes to Ordinary Form propers, we need as many options as possible, and a fantastic book appeared today:
* * PROPER OF THE MASS — 1,292 page book
I won’t reproduce the descriptions given there, but please notice that Fr. Weber’s book provides multiple settings for each chant. Below are audio samples demonstrating a “simpler” setting and a “complex” setting of the same Entrance chant. If you’re familiar with the ancient Latin version (“Judica Me”) you will notice that Fr. Weber’s version sounds quite similar:
Simpler Setting: YouTube • Mp3 File
Complex Setting: YouTube • Mp3 File
I ordered my copy today; when it arrives, I hope to write a comprehensive review of Fr. Weber’s masterpiece.
*** UPDATES :
Lovely images of this book can now be viewed.
Andrew R. Motyka has posted a beautiful review of this book.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND this new English Gradual to anyone who wants to sing the proper antiphons on a regular basis and is looking for very accessible, yet most beautiful chant in the vernacular. We cannot thank Fr. Samuel Weber enough for all his hard work, a true labor of love and dedication to liturgy and the Church. I am most confident that this new Gradual will become a standard work and hopefully find a home in many parishes.
—Dr. Horst Buchholz (Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, MO)
NOTES FROM THIS ARTICLE:
1 Daniel Craig’s landmark article presents important documentation from the USCCB which—although it dates from a few years ago—is still pertinent.
2 Even more options, along with audio samples, can be found here.
