EASTER AND THE VIGIL

Music will be enhanced by our brass trio at the Easter Vigil, and at the 9:00 and 11:15 Masses on Easter Sunday.

7 PM; III-30-13 - THE EASTER VIGIL

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS

Exsultet (Easter Proclamation): Roman Missal chant, sung by yours truly (in English)

- The text is in the missalette, in the Easter Vigil section.  There is a brief dialogue between cantor and congregation (Lift up your hearts/We lift them up to the Lord, etc.), same melody as the dialog of the Preface of the Eucharistic Prayer that Fr. Bucci normally leads.

- The Exsultet may be sung by a priest, deacon, or cantor.

Of the seven Old Testament readings, the first three are proclaimed.  The music to the Responsorial Psalms that follow all three of these readings can be found in the missalette on the pages corresponding to these readings.

Gloria: Messa "Cristo Risuciti", music by Luigi Picchi

- Note: the music to this Mass is based on a tune normally associated with Paschal Time.  That tune, normally associated with the hymn Christ the Lord is risen again, is known in Latin as Surgit in Haec Dies, and in German as Christ ist Erstanden.  This Mass setting will be in use throughout the Paschal Season.

Alleluia: refrain from the chant hymn O Filii et Filiae (O Sons and Daughters), a Mode II processional that originated in Paris.  This will be the alleluia used before the Gospel for the duration of the Easter Season, including Pentecost.

Litany of Saints: Roman Missal chant, found in the missalette in the baptismal section of the Vigil.

Music during the Sprinkling of Holy Water (after the Renewal of Baptismal Promises): Vidi Aquam, music by Joseph Gruber.

- Translation: I saw water flowing from the temple, from the right side, alleluia.  And all to whom this water came were saved and shall say: Alleluia, alleluia.

- How many remember chanting the Asperges Me on Sundays in the traditional Latin High Mass?  Well, during Paschal Time, the Asperges Me was replaced by the Vidi Aquam.

Offertory hymn: Maroon 98 That Easter Day with joy was bright (Listen)

- Tune is exactly the same as What Star Is This, which we sang at the Epiphany

Sanctus: Messa "Cristo Risuciti", music by Luigi Picchi

Memorial Acclamation and Amen: adapted from Surgit in Haec Dies, on which Messa "Cristo Risuciti" is based.  The Memorial Acclamation is in English, using the first option: We proclaim your death, O Lord, and profess your resurrection, until you come again.

Agnus Dei: Messa "Cristo Risuciti", music by Luigi Picchi

Communion anthem: Festive Alleluia, by Gordon Young

Meditation hymn: Worship 443 Regina Caeli, in Latin and English (There is only one verse of each)

Recessional hymn: Maroon 85 Jesus Christ is ris'n today 

III-31-13 - EASTER DAY

MASSES AT 7:30, 9:00, AND 11:15 AM

Entrance hymn: Maroon 96 The day of Resurrection (Listen)

Gloria: same as at the Vigil, see above

Responsorial Psalm: This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad, music in the missalette, under Easter Sunday

Sequence: Victimae Paschali Laudes, music in the missalette, chanted in Latin (translation provided)

- One of only three sequences used in the modern liturgical calendar.  The other two are used at Pentecost and at Corpus Christi.

Alleluia: same as at the Vigil, see above

Everything from the Sprinkling Music to the end: same as at the Vigil, see above

Peace,
BMP

GOOD FRIDAY

7 PM; III-29-13

MUSIC FOR THE SOLEMN LITURGY
OF OUR LORD'S PASSION AND DEATH

All enter in silence.

Responsorial Psalm: Father, into your hands, I commend my spirit, music by Richard Rice



Gospel Acclamation: same as during Lent

Music during the "kneel and pause" during the Passion reading: Adoramus Te, Christe, music by Theodore Dubois, from his Seven Last Words of Christ 

- Translation: We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee, because by Thy holy Cross thou hast redeemed the world.  (We sang this at the pause on Palm Sunday also, something I forgot to mention.)

Choral music during the Veneration of the Cross (as time permits):

1. Parce, Domine, music by Fr. Carlo Rossini

2. God so loved the world, music by Sir John Stainer

3. Jesu, salvator noster, music by Fr. Carlo Rossini

As the Cross is being enthroned, the following refrain is sung:

Christ Jesus Victor, Christ Jesus Ruler, Christ Jesus Lord and Redeemer! 

Music during Communion (as time permits):

1. Ave Verum, music by Camille Saint-Saëns

2. HYMN: Maroon 75 O Sacred head, sore wounded

3. Tantum Ergo, music by Oreste Ravanello

- You may follow the Worship hymnal (#758) for the text, but the music is different than what is written.  A translation is also provided there.

Meditation hymn: Maroon 467 Abide with me (Listen)

All depart in silence.

HOLY THURSDAY

7 PM; III-28-13

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS

Numbers listed are from the red Worship hymnal.

Entrance hymn: 704 Lift high the cross

Gloria: Messa Populare "Laus Tibi Christe", music by Federico Caudana
- part of the Mass setting we did back in November

Responsorial Psalm: Our blessing cup is a communion with the Blood of Christ, music by yours truly

  

Gospel Acclamation: same as during Lent

Offertory hymn: 733 At that first Eucharist (Listen)

Sanctus through Agnus Dei: same as on the Sundays of Lent

Communion:

- 1. Adoro Te, O Panis Caelice, music from Louvain, Belgium

- - Prose translation: I adore Thee, O Bread of Heaven, O Lord, O God Most High.  Holy, holy, holy, holy without end, For ever be glory to Thee in the Sacred Host.  Remember us, Thy servants, O Lord, and always feed us by Thy grace.  (Holy, holy...Sacred Host).  

- 2. Ecce Panis Angelorum, 17th century melody, arranged by Fr. Carlo Rossini

- - Prose translation: Behold the Bread of Angels, made the Food of wayfarers, Truly the bread of children, not to be given to the dogs.  Good shepherd, true Bread, Jesus, have mercy on us: Feed us, protect us, Make us to see good things in the land of the living.

There is no meditation hymn.

Solemn Translation (Transfer) of the Holy Eucharist: Pange Lingua, music by Fr. Carlo Rossini

- - You may use the Worship hymnal (#813) for the text (however, the music is different than what is written).  There is a translation with it.

There is no recessional hymn.  All depart in silence, or even better, spend some time with our Eucharistic Lord in Adoration, which will run until 10 PM.

Peace,
BMP

PALM SUNDAY

The music for the 5:00 PM Mass this Saturday and the 9:00 and 11:15 AM Masses this Sunday will be embellished by our brass trio (trumpet, flugelhorn, and French horn), as well as our regular singers (soprano and alto, with added tenor).

The 7:30 AM Mass will be, as per usual, the trio of me, myself, and I.

Also, the parish is having a bake sale after ALL the Masses this weekend!

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS

The hymn at the Procession of the Palms and the Offertory hymn are taken from the maroon hymnal.

The Recessional hymn is taken from the red Worship hymnal.

Entrance chant:

- At the 7:30 Mass: Hosanna Filio David, sung to the Mode VII chant tune.

- - Translation: Hosanna to the Son of David.  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.  O King of Israel.  Hosanna in the highest.

- At all other Masses: Pueri Haebraeorum, with brass, music by Franz Schubert, from his "Six Palm Sunday Acclamations"

- - Translation: The children of the Hebrews went to meet the Lord, crying out and saying, "Hosanna in the highest."

Hymn at the Procession (after the first Gospel): Maroon 62 All glory, laud, and honor  (Listen)

Gospel Acclamation: same as the Sundays of Lent

Offertory hymn: Maroon 75 O sacred head, sore wounded

Sanctus:

- At the 7:30 Mass: from Missa Populare "Laus Tibi Christe", music by Federico Caudana

- - We did this Mass setting back in November.

- At all other Masses: from Six Palm Sunday Acclamations, music by Franz Schubert

- - The "Hosanna in excelsis" lines are sung to the same melody as the "Hosanna in excelsis" line of the aforementioned Pueri Haebraeorum.

Memorial Acclamation: When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim your death, O Lord, until you come again, adapted from excerpts of the Gloria from the "Laus Tibi Christe" Mass.

Amen: The same triple "Amen" that ends the Gloria from the "Laus Tibi Christe" Mass.

- We also sang the Memorial and Amen throughout November as well.

Agnus Dei: also from the "Laus Tibi Christe" Mass

- this is the same tune as the Kyrie that we've been using throughout Lent.

Communion anthem: God so loved the world, by Sir John Stainer (from The Crucifixion)

- God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoso believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved.  

Recessional hymn: Worship 497 To Jesus Christ, our sov'reign King

Peace,
BMP

SAINT JOSEPH, HUSBAND OF MARY

III-19-13 (Tuesday) at 9 AM
Also, Pope Francis is formally installed!!!

Also, after Mass, go down to the hall and get some zeppoles.  (Did I spell that right?)

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS

Numbers given are in the Red (Worship) hymnal.

Entrance hymn: 693 Joseph, be our guide and pattern (Listen)

- Same tune as another hymn we do, To the Name of our salvation.  However, we don't sing this tune as slowly as on the link provided. ;)

Kyrie: same as on the Sundays of Lent

Gloria (if sung): Mass VIII

- Normally the Gloria is omitted during Lent.  That is, except on solemnities, such as this.

Responsorial Psalm: The Son of David will live for ever, music by yours truly (Listen)

- This is the same tune as another antiphon we've used with the same Psalm, For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

Gospel Acclamation: same as on the Sundays of Lent

Offertory hymn: 694 Come now, and praise the humble saint (Listen)

- Some may be familiar with another hymn that uses this early American tune.  That hymn is Jerusalem, my happy home.  The name of the tune is Land of Rest.

Sanctus through Agnus Dei: same as on the Sundays of Lent

Communion hymn: 488 Jesus, my Lord, my God, my All 

Recessional hymn: Long live the Pope (on the sheets provided in the pew rack)

- We sang this on Sunday March 17.

Peace,
BMP

SUNDAY V OF LENT

and HABEMUS PAPAM!

Jorge Mario Cardinal Bergoglio of Argentina is now Pope Francis (some say Pope Francis I, but the "I" may not be necessary until a Francis II surfaces).  Anyways, Francis will be shepherding our Church as of now.

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS

Numbers refer to the Maroon hymnal.

Entrance hymn: 342 Jesus, Name all names above 

Kyrie: same as the last few Sundays

Responsorial Psalm: The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy, music by Alfred Calabrese.

Gospel Acclamation: same as the last few Sundays

Offertory hymn: 337 When I survey the wondrous cross 

Sanctus through Agnus Dei: same as the last few Sundays

Communion anthem: Parce Domine, music by Fr. Carlo Rossini

- Fr. Rossini wrote many easy and short choral pieces, as well as brief preludes, offertories, and postludes for the organ.  Many of those organ pieces were part of his The Liturgical Organist series.  Fr. Rossini was also organist and choirmaster at St. Paul's Cathedral in Pittsburgh, PA, in the early 20th century.

Meditation hymn: 462 (First tune) Jesus, the very thought of thee (Listen)

Recessional hymn: Long Live the Pope, not in either hymnal, but text and music will be provided.

- A couple of Sundays ago, I used this piece instrumentally as the postlude after Mass as a thanksgiving to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.  This weekend, we will be singing this in honor of our new Holy Father, Pope Francis.  (Listen - if you click the "show more" link, you will find the lyrics.  However, we will be singing a different middle verse.)

Peace,
BMP

SUNDAY IV OF LENT

Laetare Sunday, III-10-13

This Sunday is somewhat of a counterpart to what Gaudete Sunday is in Advent.  Both "Gaudete" and "Laetare" are Latin words meaning "Rejoice", and are the first word of the Introit (or "Entrance Chant") for their respective Sundays ("Gaudete in Domino semper"/"Rejoice in the Lord always" for the Third Sunday of Advent, and "Laetare, Jerusalem"/"Rejoice, O Jerusalem" for the Fourth Sunday of Lent).  While the celebrant (never the "presider") normally wears violet vestments on the Sundays of Advent and Lent, the celebrant wears rose vestments on the "Rejoice" Sundays.  Such is the case for this Sunday, the Fourth in Lent.

Here is the Introit, translated:
Rejoice, O Jerusalem, and gather round, all ye who love her; rejoice in gladness, after having been in sorrow; exult and be replenished with the consolation flowing from her motherly bosom.

Even the Psalm verse that accompanies the above Introit speaks of rejoicing:

I rejoiced when it was said unto me: "Let us go unto the house of the Lord."

On a musical note, some keener ears may have noticed that I have taken a little bit off the organ during Lent, dignified, but perhaps not as bold or as grand as those ears would hear during those Sundays of, let's say, Ordinary Time.  This is my attempt to keep with the season - just enough to support singing without sounding too ferial, or perhaps funereal.  Traditionally, much of the music during Lent is sung a capella.  One of the old Proper books I had made note that the organ was to be silent during Lent, except for Laetare Sunday.

Therefore, this Sunday, we will revert to the tones you heard just before Ash Wednesday when accompanying the hymns.  Then, on the Fifth Sunday, back to lesser tones.

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS

All numbers refer to the Maroon hymnal.

Entrance hymn: 340 We sing the praise of him who died (Listen)

- This is the best listen link I could come up with.

Kyrie: same as previous three Sundays

Responsorial Psalm: Taste and see the goodness of the Lord, music by yours truly

Gospel Acclamation: same as previous three Sundays

Offertory hymn: 405 I sought the Lord, and afterward I knew (Listen)

- Our rendition will not be as slow or dirge-like.  ;)

Everything from the Sanctus through the Agnus Dei, plus the Meditation and Recessional hymns, are all the same as last Sunday.

Communion anthem: My God, my Father, while I stray, music by A.H. Troyte and Nicola Montani

Peace,

BMP

FIRST FRIDAY OF MARCH and THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT

First Friday - III-1-13 at 6:30 PM (not the usual 6 PM)

This Mass will have a combination of Sacred Heart and Lenten seasonal music.  Music for the entrance and recessional hymns will be on sheets that will be placed at the edge of the pews (closest to center aisle).

Entrance hymn: O Sacred Heart, O Love Divine

Kyrie (if sung): Laus Tibi Christe (our regular Kyrie during Lent)

Responsorial Psalm: Remember the marvels the Lord has done, sung to Psalm Tone 2D
- words in missalette in the daily Mass section under March 1.

Gospel Acclamation: same as on the Sundays of Lent

Offertory hymn: Worship 414 Attende, Domine (We sang this on Ash Wednesday)

Ordinary of the Mass: same as on the Sundays of Lent

Communion anthem: Panis Angelicus (Hungarian tune)

Recessional hymn: To Jesus' Heart, all-burning

Third Sunday of Lent - III-3-13

All numbers here are found in the Maroon hymnal, except where noted.

Entrance hymn: 59 Lord, who throughout these forty days
- (We sang this on Ash Wednesday and on the First Sunday of Lent)

Kyrie: same as previous two Sundays

Responsorial Psalm: The Lord is kind and merciful, music by David Haas and Joseph Gelineau, SJ.  (Can be found in Worship, #795)

Gospel Acclamation: same as previous two Sundays

Offertory hymn: 337 When I survey the wondrous cross (Listen)

Ordinary of the Mass: same as previous two Sundays

Communion anthem: Jesu, Salvator noster, music by Carlo Rossini

Meditation hymn: 190 Let thy blood in mercy poured (Listen)

Recessional hymn: 65 (First tune) There is a green hill far away (Listen)

Peace,
BMP

SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT

Ah yes, the day we hear the Gospel reading of the Transfiguration of our Lord Jesus Christ.

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS

All numbers refer to the Maroon hymnal.

Entrance hymn: 343 (First Tune) Praise to the Holiest in the height (Listen)

Kyrie: Messa Popolare "Laus Tibi Christe", music by Federico Caudana

- sung at Masses celebrated by Father Bucci

Responsorial Psalm: The Lord is my light and my salvation, music by Richard Proulx (antiphon) and Joseph Gelineau, SJ (verses) (can be found in Worship at #792)

Gospel Acclamation: same as Ash Wednesday

Offertory hymn: 61 The glory of these forty days (Listen)

- Organist in the video linked here is a good friend of mine, Ryan Lynch, who frequented some of the same church music message boards I did at one point.  He has since moved from the Boston area to Chicagoland to take on a much better parish position there.

Sung Mass (Sanctus through Agnus Dei): same as Ash Wednesday

Communion anthem: Ave Verum, music by Lorenzo Perosi

- By the way, stay tuned for a beautiful new (new to you, that is) Ave Verum we will be learning for Holy Week by Camille Saint-Saëns!

Meditation hymn: 414 O for a heart to praise my God (Listen)

Recessional hymn: 55 Forty days and forty nights (short simple tune!) (Listen)

Peace,

BMP

SUNDAY I OF LENT

II-17-13

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS:

All numbers are found in the Maroon hymnal, except where noted.

Entrance hymn: 59 Lord, who throughout these forty days (our entrance from Ash Wednesday)

Kyrie: Messa Populare "Laus Tibi Christe", music by Federico Caudana.
- We used this last year during Lent, and will continue this practice this year as well, at the very least, during Masses celebrated by Father Bucci.

There is NO Gloria during Lent, except during solemnities (e.g., St. Joseph, March 19)

Responsorial Psalm: Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble, music by Alexander Peloquin (refrain) and Joseph Gelineau, SJ (verses).  You can find this in Worship at #789.

Gospel Acclamation: Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ, same as Ash Wednesday.

Offertory hymn: 415 (First Tune) Jesus, lover of my soul (Listen)
- This hymn is equally ideal for funeral Masses, and I have used it quite a few times at funerals at Sacred Heart.

Sanctus through Agnus Dei: same as Ash Wednesday.

Communion anthem: My song is love unknown, music by John Ireland.
- Though we are singing this as an anthem, you may still follow along in Worship, #439.

Meditation hymn: 438 (First Tune) I need thee every hour (Listen)

Recessional hymn: 342 Jesus, Name all names above (Listen)
- The link only plays about half the hymn, but I'm sure most have heard/sung this before.  This hymn has become a favorite of mine since first hearing it from my predecessor (and good friend), Dave Sylvester.

Peace,
BMP

ASH WEDNESDAY

II-13-13; Masses at 9 AM, 12 Noon, and 6:30 PM

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS:

Entrance hymn: MAROON 59 Lord, who throughout these forty days (Listen)
- Short, sweet, and very familiar Lenten staple

Responsorial Psalm: WORSHIP 1091 Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned

- Music by Providence's own Alexander Peloquin (late great music director emeritus of the Cathedral of SS. Peter and Paul; Side note: I got written up for five minutes overtime parking when I attended Alex's funeral in 1997!  Mea maxima culpa!)

Gospel Acclamation: Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ, music by yours truly, adapted from the Mode I chant Vexilla Regis Prodeunt (The Royal Banners Forward Go).  We did this setting last year as well.

Offertory hymn: WORSHIP 755 Our Father, we have wandered (Listen)

- The same tune as the famed "Passion Chorale" (O sacred Head, surrounded in the Worship hymnal; O sacred Head, sore wounded in the Maroon hymnal), harmony by Johann Sebastian Bach.

The Ordinary of the Mass (Sanctus through Agnus) today and on the five numbered Sundays of Lent will be simple chants, all of which can be found in Worship (and all which we've sung... often).

(Sanctus: 348; Mysterium fidei: Mortem tuam annuntiamus: 349; Amen 330; Agnus Dei 353)

Communion hymn: WORSHIP 414 Attende, Domine (in Latin) (Listen)

- Those interested in the translation will find it along with the Latin.

Giving of Ashes:

(9:00 and 6:30) Parce, Domine, music by Carlo Rossini (with cantor)

(Noon) WORSHIP 416 Parce Domine, Mode I (I'm working the Noon Mass alone) (Listen)

- Translation: Spare, O Lord, your people; Be not eternally angry with us.

(The Latin verse of the Rossini version is from the beginning of Psalm 51 (50)).

Peace,
BMP

SUNDAY V OF ORDINARY TIME (UPDATED!)

Hard to believe this is the LAST Sunday of Ordinary Time before Ash Wednesday comes along, thus commencing the season of Lent.  Much of the hymnody for this weekend are hymns with "Alleluia" repeated multiple times.  This was a custom used to "let all the Alleluias ring out" for one final time before having to put them away until the Vigil of Easter.

In the traditional liturgical calendar, the Alleluia was put away even sooner than this.  Until the current forms of the Roman Missal were promulgated, we had a three-week "pre-Lent", Sundays known as Septuagesima, Sexagesima, and Quinquagesima (70 days, 60 days, and 50 days, not-so-literally speaking, but used symbolically for naming the Sundays), where the Gloria and Alleluia were already put away (the Alleluia chanted before the Gospel was replaced by the Tract back then).  In the Extraordinary Form of the Mass (the Traditional Latin Mass according to the Roman Missal of 1962), this "pre-Lent" still is observed, thus Septuagesima was observed on January 25, meaning January 18 would have been the last day of Alleluias until Paschaltide.

Incidentally, the Latin word for Lent is "Quadragesima" - 40 days.

Now, without further ado...

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS

UPDATE II-9-13 11:06 PM:  Due to the nasty snowstorm, there was no music at the 5 PM Saturday Mass.  The 7:30 AM Sunday Mass will be Low Mass (Missa Recitata/Said Mass) as well.  The 9 and 11:15 AM Masses will have music.  I will be singing alone from the organ console.  Other changes may be made at Father's request, according to attendance, safety issues, etc.

Numbers refer to the Maroon Hymnal this weekend:

Entrance hymn: 347 (Second Tune) Alleluia! sing to Jesus 

- (same tune as "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling", which we sang last Sunday)

Gloria (if sung): Mass VIII (Depending on the attendance, this may likely be said instead of sung.)

Responsorial Psalm:  In the sight of the angels, I will sing your praises, Lord, music by Owen Alstott (music in the missalette with the readings for February 10)

Alleluia: the Marier Alleluia that we've been using the last few weeks

Offertory hymn: 599 Ye watchers and ye holy ones

- (same tune as a couple of other hymns we've used before: "All creatures of our God and King" and "A hymn of glory let us sing")

Sanctus through Agnus Dei: the settings we've been singing the last few weeks

Communion anthem: organ improvisations by yours truly

Meditation hymn: 211 Come, with us, O blessed Jesus

- The tune used here is Werde Munter, which is the tune used for the beloved classic Jesu, joy of man's desiring, which was arranged as a chorale by Johann Sebastian Bach.  The version used here contains Bach's harmony in the hymn, but without all the instrumental interludes, and in a slightly lower key than one would normally hear Jesu Joy.  (Listen - this link plays it in two keys; we'll be using the first key, which is the lower.)

Recessional hymn: 54 Alleluia! song of gladness (Listen - move cursor to 16:15 mark for the hymn)

- Look at the text really good in the hymnal, and you'll see the "last time till Easter" theme used here.  The tune is titled after its Latin counterpart, Alleluia! Dulce Carmen. 

Peace,

BMP

SUNDAY IV OF ORDINARY TIME

Just think!!! There are only two Sundays left of Ordinary Time.  Lent is coming very quickly.  For those less familiar with moveable dates, because Easter is early this year (March 31), a number of other feasts are earlier this year:

- Ash Wednesday

- Palm Sunday

- The Triduum (Maundy/Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday)

- Divine Mercy Sunday (Sunday II of Easter, traditionally known as Low Sunday)

- The Ascension

- Pentecost

- Post-Pentecost Solemnities (Most Holy Trinity, Corpus Christi, Sacred Heart)

This also means that there will be a few more numbered Sundays of Ordinary Time between Corpus Christi and Christ the King, just as there are less numbered Sundays this year between the Baptism of the Lord and Ash Wednesday.

And now, without further ado...

Music for Holy Mass

Hymn numbers for this day will be in the Red Worship hymnal.  Feel free to take advantage of the "Listen" links to familiarize yourself with a hymn, and, by all means, FEEL FREE TO SING OUT at Mass.  Even if you're still not sure of a tune, it will come to you.  Ever notice that the organ is usually "louder" (or at least "stronger") at certain points (excluding fanfares and postludes)?  Those louder points are usually to support (help, encourage, boost) the congregation's singing.  In the words of Jesus, "Have no fear, little flock". :)

Entrance hymn: 588 Love divine, all loves excelling (tune is the same as Alleluia! Sing to Jesus)

- (Listen)

Gloria (if sung): Mass VIII (in Latin)

Responsorial Psalm: I will sing of your salvation, music by Owen Alstott (missalette, page 55)

Alleluia: same as Sunday II

Offertory hymn: 617 Christ is made the sure foundation (Listen)

Sanctus through Agnus Dei: same as Sunday II

Communion anthem: 598 Ubi Caritas (We're singing this as an anthem, but the number is here if you would like to join in the refrain during Communion).  (Listen)

Meditation hymn: 605 O Jesus, joy of loving hearts (Listen)

Recessional hymn: 492 Jesus shall reign (Listen)

Peace,
BMP

SUNDAY III OF ORDINARY TIME

Music for Holy Mass

The numbers for today's hymn selections come from the Maroon hymnal.

Entrance hymn: 545 Hail to the Lord's Anointed.
- This hymn has two tunes.  However, we are using neither.  Instead we will use this more familiar tune, the same tune that we use for such hymns as The Day of Resurrection and Go, Make of All Disciples.  You will still want to refer to the hymnal for the sake of the words.  Just ignore the music.

Gloria: (if sung) Mass VIII, chant

Responsorial Psalm: Your words, Lord, are spirit and life, music by yours truly

 

Alleluia: music by Theodore Marier. (same as last Sunday)

Offertory hymn: 477 God himself is with us (Listen)

- We will be using verses 1, 3, and 4.  Verse 2 will be omitted.

Sanctus through Agnus Dei: same as last Sunday

Communion anthem: In thee is gladness, music by Giovanni Giacomo Gastoldi

- Although the composer is Italian, the original title for this piece was in German: In der ist Freude.

Meditation hymn: 199 (First tune) Now, my tongue, the mystery telling

- The text here is a translation of the Latin classic Pange lingua gloriosi that was penned by Saint Thomas Aquinas.  The tune is the familiar Mode III chant, with a couple of very minor alterations. (Listen to the tune.  The Latin text is sung in the video linked here)

Recessional hymn: 537 Christ for the world, we sing (Listen)

Peace,
BMP

SUNDAY II OF ORDINARY TIME

Music for Holy Mass

You will notice three Marian hymns that are being sung this weekend.  The Gospel reading for today mentions the wedding feast at Cana, at which Mary (referred to by the evangelist John not by name, but as the "mother of Jesus") was present, and told the waiters to do whatever her Son tells them.

The numbers of today's selections come from the Worship hymnal.

Entrance hymn: 410 Songs of thankfulness and praise (which we sang as the recessional hymn last Sunday)

Gloria: (if sung) Mass VIII, chant

Responsorial Psalm: Proclaim his marvelous deeds to all the nations, music by Royce Nickel

Alleluia: music by Theodore Marier.  (Listen)  (We sang this for a while about this time last year!)

- Side note: Theodore Marier was the founding headmaster of the Boston Archdiocesan Choir School, located at St. Paul's Church in Harvard Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts.  Dr. Marier was a great contributor to the Pius X Hymnal, published in 1953, and to the hymnal Hymns, Psalms, and Spiritual Canticles, which started out as a parish hymnal, but copies were also sold to a handful of parishes (only a handful???) across the country.  Dr. Marier retired in 1986 and died in 2001, but his beloved Choir School and his musical legacy at St. Paul's and beyond lives to this day.

Offertory hymn: 404 Sing of Mary, pure and lowly (Listen)

Sanctus: Mass for Christian Unity, music by Jan Vermulst.  You'll recognize this one also, from about this time last year.

Memorial Acclamation: We proclaim your death, O Lord from Holy Angels Mass, music by yours truly.  Another one you'll recognize.  (Listen)

- Side note:  Holy Angels Mass is a Mass setting I wrote between the summer of 2010 and the spring of 2011, using the text with the most current Roman Missal translation which all parishes began on the First Sunday of Advent, 2011.  The music I used is a metrical adaptation of Mass VIII and the Jubilate Deo collection of Mass chants issued by Pope Paul VI in 1974.  If you go into YouTube and  type either "Holy Angels Mass" or my full name ("Brian Michael Page") in the search bar, you'll find three instances the Gloria from this Mass sung by the choir and congregation of St. Michael's Church in Stillwater, Minnesota.  If all goes right, I may introduce it here at Sacred Heart sometime. :)

Amen: the short two-fold Dresden Amen, which we sang at Advent, and at non-choral Masses during the Christmas season as well.

Agnus Dei: Mass for Christian Unity, music by Jan Vermulst.

(Click here to listen to Mass for Christian Unity.  The Sanctus is at the 2:34 mark, and the Agnus Dei is at the 3:53 mark.  You'll say, "Oh yeah!  I remember this!"  This will be the set for the next four weeks.)  ;)

Communion anthem:  Cantate Domino Canticum Novum, by Vincent d'Indy (sung by trio).  Based on Psalm 96 (Vulgate 95), which is also this day's responsorial Psalm.  The chorus "Cantate Domino canticum novum; Cantate Domino, omnis terra", translates "Sing to the Lord a new song; Sing to the Lord, all the earth!"

Meditation hymn: 713 Ave Maria, chant, Mode I (Listen)

Recessional hymn: 702 Hail, holy Queen enthroned above

Peace,
BMP

NOMENCLATURE of the MASS

First in a series

That first hymn we sing - is it...
A) An opening hymn
B) A gathering hymn
C) An entrance hymn

If you answered "C", you are correct.  Traditionally known as the "Introit" (which is still the proper chant that begins the Mass), the "Cantus Introitus" translates as the "Entrance song", or more literally, the "Entrance chant".  It accompanies the procession of the celebrant (not "presider", that term may be a future topic) and the ministers.  In addition, the General Instruction of the Roman Missal, the edition that accompanies the current form of the Mass, calls it the "Entrance chant".  Think of this passage from Psalm 43 (Vulgate: Psalm 42) which reads in Latin: "Introibo ad altare Dei".  This translates to "I will enter unto the altar of God".  Some may remember this as part of the "Prayers at the foot of the altar" in the 1962 Roman Missal.

At one time, many were using choice "A", the "Opening hymn".  This could be partially correct, as it does open the Mass, but it doesn't have that effect that the "Entrance hymn" would have.

The choice farthest from the truth (and unfortunately a very popular term in many mainstream parishes and their "musicians") is "B", the "gathering hymn".  There is just no such thing.  First of all, realize the shift of focus here.  While the "Entrance hymn" refers to the entrance of the priest and ministers, the "gathering hymn" shifts the focus on the person in the pew.  In addition, if you're gathering while this hymn is being sung, you're most likely late for Mass.

Peace,

BMP

BAPTISM OF OUR LORD

13 January 2013

Once again, a Sunday feast that falls on its traditional date!  Yes, in the traditional liturgical calendar (which, incidentally, is still observed when Mass is said in the Extraordinary Form), the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord Jesus Christ is on the fixed date of January 13, which, well... just happens to fall on a Sunday this year.

MUSIC FOR HOLY MASS

So, without further ado, the music list for this final day of the Christmas Season (numbers refer to the red Worship hymnal):

Entrance hymn: 356 On Jordan's bank

- Although this familiar hymn falls in the Advent section of many hymnals, it's still very much appropriate for this feast.  After all, it echoes passages from the Gospel you heard a month ago, on the Third Sunday of Advent: "One mightier than I is to come....I am not fit to loosen the thongs of his sandals," spake John the Baptist.

Gloria: same as Holy Family

Responsorial Psalm: O bless the Lord, my soul (setting by Royce Nickel)

Alleluia: same as Holy Family

Offertory hymn: 412 When John baptized by Jordan's river
- Many of you who come to Mass at Sacred Heart regularly will recognize the tune.  It's the same tune that is used for the Eucharistic hymn Father, we thank thee who hast planted.  (Listen)

Sanctus through Agnus Dei: same as Holy Family.

Communion anthem: Benedictus Dominus Deus Israel (Psalm Tone 7c with alternating polyphony by yours truly.

Meditation hymn: 488 Jesus, my Lord, my God, my All

Recessional hymn: 410 Songs of thankfulness and praise
- Once again, you'll recognize the tune with another hymn.  This is the same tune as Easter hymn At the Lamb's High Feast we sing.  (Listen)

Peace,
BMP

SACRED HEART COMMUNITY MASS

First Friday - 4 January 2013 at 6 PM

Memorial: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Hymn numbers refer to the red Worship hymnal.

Entrance hymn: 376 Angels we have heard on high

Responsorial Psalm: All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God, music written by yours truly.

Alleluia: see Holy Family post

Offertory hymn: 392 Adeste Fideles (in Latin)

Sanctus: Mass XVIII

Mysterium Fidei: Mortem tuam annuntiamus, Domine, et tuam resurrectionem confitemur, donec venias.  (See Holy Family post for translation, etc.)

Amen: Dresden Amen

Agnus Dei: Mass XVIII

Communion anthem: Puer natus in Bethlehem (Chant, Mode I)

Recessional hymn: 387 Hark! the herald angels sing

Peace, BMP

MUSIC FOR FUNERALS AT SACRED HEART

Sacred Heart Church has a fairly unique habit of ensuring that the music for Mass that actually conforms to the liturgical guidelines of the Catholic Church.  This not only goes for Sunday and Holyday Masses, but for weddings and funerals as well.  Therefore, you often hear bits of music that aren't heard in too many parishes.  In fact, some parishes haven't gotten to enjoy such a sense of the sacred since Vatican II.  For those who have been to a funeral at Sacred Heart Church, and have been wondering "what's that stuff the organist (and the pastor) is singing???", here is a little primer.

A good chunk of the music, particularly the Gregorian Chant that we sing in Latin, is proper to the funeral liturgy, and has been proper to the funeral liturgy as long as there have been funeral liturgies.

The first bit of singing heard is when the celebrant (I never use the word "presider") and servers process to the casket is Requiem aeternam dona eis Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis.  That is, Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.  This is the antiphon to what is the proper Introit (Entrance chant) to the funeral Mass.

After the celebrant blesses the casket, the procession, with casket, proceeds to the altar, at which point a hymn is sung.  This is almost always something from one of our two hymnals.  Some titles often used are:

- Lift high the cross (Worship, #704)

- Crown him with many crowns (Maroon, #352)

- Jesus, lover of my soul (Maroon, #415, first tune)

- Amazing grace (Worship, #583) (if requested)

Following the first reading is the responsorial Psalm, which is always sung.  Even though this is sung in English, it is still a proper of the Mass, and its translation is taken from either the Lectionary for Mass or from the Grail, both translations approved for use here in the United States.  Options include:

- Psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd, settings by Owen Alstott or by yours truly, - OR - My shepherd is the Lord, as found in the Worship hymnal, #32)

- Psalm 25 (To you, O Lord, I lift my soul, setting in the Worship hymnal, #768).  I use this mainly during Advent Season.

- Psalm 27 (The Lord is my light and my salvation, setting by Richard Rice, or the setting in the Worship hymnal, #792 during Lent or #871 during Ordinary Time)

- Psalm 63 (My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord, my God, setting by Fr. Samuel Weber, OSB)

- Psalm 122 (Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord, setting by yours truly).  This one is intended for use in the Last Weeks of Ordinary Time (November).

The music for the Alleluia (or Gospel Acclamation if during Lent) is selected according to season.  The accompanying verse is appointed for funerals.  Again, in English, but still a proper.

During the offertory, I usually sing a setting of the Ave Maria.  The most popular setting is probably that of Franz Schubert.  However, I do vary to settings by other composers as well, namely Jacob Arcadelt, Tomas Luis de Victoria, Lorenzo Perosi, and the Mode I Gregorian Chant.  There is also a melody written by Charles Gounod set over J.S. Bach's Prelude in C from his well-known collection, The Well-Tempered Clavier.  I often do this one during Advent and Christmas seasons.

If there is a setting you would like, please specify to the undertaker, Kathy, Father, or myself.  If you will say "the famous Ave Maria", or "the one I heard on TV", I will assume the Schubert setting.

Following is the sung Ordinary of the Mass (Sanctus through Agnus Dei).  The setting we use most is the Gregorian Missa Pro Defunctis (Mass XVIII, for the Dead).  You could call it a "proper", as the Church assigns this setting for funerals, but it's not a "proper".  It's the Ordinary.  The text does not vary.  In this particular setting of the Mass, the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) is a bit different.  In the first two repetitions, the line "miserere nobis" (have mercy on us) is replaced by "dona eis requiem" (grant them rest), and the final ending "dona nobis pacem" (grant us peace) is replaced by "dona eis requiem sempiternam" (grant them eternal rest).

The Memorial Acclamation ("Mysterium Fidei", or "The Mystery of Faith") is the same one we've been using the last few weeks, and you can find more information on it here.

As Father begins to distribute Holy Communion to the faithful, you hear yet another a capella chant.  The text is Lux aeterna luceat eis, Domine, cum Sanctis tuis in aeternum quia pius est.  Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis, cum Sanctis tuis in aeternum quia pius est.  The translation is May eternal light shine upon them O Lord, with your saints forever, for you are gracious.  Grant them eternal rest, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them, with your saints forever, for you are gracious.

Immediately following that brief chant (less than a half minute) is a hymn or anthem that will accompany the rest of the Communion Rite.  Such titles often used here include:

- Panis Angelicus (settings by Cesar Franck or Louis Lambillotte, or the Hungarian tune found in the Pius X Hymnal)

- Jesus, my Lord, my God, my All (Worship, #488)

- Jesus, Son of Mary (Maroon, #223)

- Let thy Blood in mercy poured (Maroon, #190)

- Pie Jesu (setting by Gabriel Faure)

Following the Post-Communion Prayer, the celebrant approaches the casket for the Final Commendation.  At this point, there is a brief piece, again, proper to the rites.  The one we use most often is "I believe that my Redeemer lives", using a setting written by a local composer, Henri St. Louis.  The other option for the Final Commendation music is "Saints of God, come to his/her aid", or its paraphrase, "Come to his/her aid, O Saints of God", which is sung to the same tune as the famous "Praise God, from whom all blessings flow".

Finally is the recessional.  One of the unique things about a funeral Mass is that it's the only Mass that actually has a proper recessional.  That recessional is "In Paradisum", and you can find that in the Worship hymnal at #178.  It is sung in Latin, but a translation is provided there.  Although this is the proper, sometimes a requested piece may take its place, e.g. "How Great Thou Art", or for military funerals, a patriotic hymn.  However, when not specified, the proper is sung by default.

Any questions, feel free to contact me.
Peace,
BMP

WEDDINGS FOR 2013

Those getting married at Sacred Heart Church in 2013 should contact me, Brian Michael Page, the parish organist, at least a month or two in advance 1) to book the date, and 2) to select music for your wedding Mass.  You may meet with me in the choir loft after any Mass, but for the music planning, which sometimes takes some time (I've met with couples for as long as an hour sometimes), it is best to see me after the 5:00 Mass on a Saturday or after the 11:15 Mass on a Sunday.  You may also get my phone number from either Fr. Bucci or from Kathy in the rectory.  (I don't leave my family phone number on an open blog, sorry.)

Peace,

BMP