New SATB Choral Work – “Missa Brevis” by Keane Southard

“Missa Brevis” for a cappella SATB Choir by Keane Southard is a setting of the “Kyrie”, “Gloria”, “Sanctus”, and “Agnus Dei of the mass ordinary. The “Kyrie” deals with topic of mercy and compassion, which is something I have been thinking about a lot during the past few tumultuous years for my country and the greater world. I firmly believe that each of us needs to cultivate more mercy and compassion for all other beings if we are to have a brighter, better, and happier future. This movement is a meditation on these oftentimes overlooked virtues. The “Gloria” and “Sanctus” are both upbeat and joyful songs of praise, while the “Agnus Dei” is an almost angelically consonant song of comfort.

The “Kyrie” was a finalist in the 2019 Ithaca College Choral Composition Competition and may be purchased and performed separately. Although several of the movements have been performed, the complete work has not been premiered.

Listen to a recording of the “Kyrie” and “Sanctus”, watch a “scrolling score” video of these two movements, preview the full score, and purchase scores via the link below.