Views from the Choir Loft

Papal Liturgies – Day 3 of the Papal Visit

Andrew Leung · September 24, 2015

On Day 3 of Pope Francis’s apostolic visit, he celebrated Solemn Vespers at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. This New York cathedral is a great piece of art, especially after the recent renovation. And the musicians of the cathedral did some beautiful and true Sacred Music under the direction of Dr. Jennifer Pascual.

Reception of the Holy Father: 10:10
Solemn Vespers: 21:00

The New York cathedral set a very good example of Liturgical Music. It is definitely a huge contrast comparing to the two public liturgies yesterday. The Mass last night really doesn’t even worth mentioning, but St. Patrick’s Cathedral seems to have the solutions to the five problems I mentioned on the post yesterday. Even though the cantor sings a little slow sometimes, but unlike the cantors of the National Shrine, he didn’t have a big smile nor did he make a lot eye-contact with the congregation. The music is also very different from the mid-day prayer yesterday, the music selection of the Vespers is very up-lifting and solemn. From the music, you can hear the importance of the person visiting. After all, the Pope is the Vicar of Christ on earth. Too bad they cut off the end of Beethoven’s Hallelujah.

About Andrew Leung

Andrew Leung currently serves the music director of Vox Antiqua, conductor of the Cecilian Singers and music director at Our Lady of China Church. He is also an artist and vocal coach at the Paul Phoenix Academy.

Sacred Music Symposium • “What We Avoid”

I wish we had to time to discuss artwork at the Sacred Music Symposium, but there’s just not enough time. At this year’s conference in June, we will sing an absolutely incredible Magnificat setting by Father Francisco Guerrero (d. 1599). If you examine the part books, you will notice a marvelous aesthetic desire to avoid the same capital letter—for the sake of beauty. Do you see how the Part Books find a way to avoid repeating the Capital G twice, by using the word “Superius” (which is roughly analogous to “Soprano”)? Breathtaking!

—Jeff Ostrowski

“Abraham” • Guerrero Imitates His Teacher

Father Francisco Guerrero (d. 1599) studied music with Father Cristóbal de Morales circa 1545. He taught himself the organ. On 3 April 1542 he was engaged as a contralto by Seville Cathedral at an annual salary of 12,000 maravedís. He remained there until 1546, when, at the age of only 17, he was invited—on the recommendation of Father Morales—to become mæstro de capilla of Jaén Cathedral. He was entrusted with the boarding, lodging, and instruction of the six choirboys; but he neglected this duty and was sentenced to be dismissed on 30 August 1548. However, he was absolved and reinstated on 3 November. I think you can see (perhaps) a little homage to his teacher on the word “Abraham.”

—Jeff Ostrowski

Too much music!

Choosing music for the Sacred Music Symposium requires careful consideration. We make sure (always) to have great variety. Because the schedule is so full, there’s never sufficient time to discuss the music fully—indeed, we could easily do a month-long seminar on each piece! For example, last year Dr. Calabrese conducted a setting of the Magnificat by Father Guerrero (d. 1599). It is one of the most magnificent (pardon the pun) pieces ever written, and I wish I had time to point out the brilliant way he syncopates the word “dispersit,” which means “He has scattered” or “He has dispersed.” Superb!

—Jeff Ostrowski