Rossini Petite Messe
Our Rosewood Mustel (Rosie) on stage with Choir & Soloists
We have noted that some Choirs have put other pieces with the Rossini, as – in itself – it is not very long. May we suggest the following for your consideration
‘On Photography’ by Gavin Bryars – 25mins. Pub: Schott
Bryars is one of our greatest contemporary composers. Scored for the same resources as the Rossini (harmonium, piano & 4 part choir), Bryars had previously played the Harmonium in a performance of that work If a shorter piece is required – you could consider the middle movement of this work. It would make a lovely addition to the Rossini and only takes 18mins.
Ave Maria by Richard Knight – for Harmonium & Piano & 4 part choir. 3&half mins long. Contact us for details.
Joyce Fantasy by Delz. Written to celebrate Joyce’s 50th anniversary.
For Chorus, Soprano, 2 pianos & Harmonium (said to be Joyce’s favourite instrument)
‘Carminalia’ by Sibelius. Written for Harmonium, Piano & Voices.
‘Gloria’ by Cecile Chaminade. This is from her Messe Pour Deux Voix Egales. It needs 2 soloists + Harmonium. Although I haven’t timed it exactly, I reckon about 10mins would do it.
‘Field Mass’ by Martinu – written for Harmonium, Winds & Voices. About 23mins
Originally the harmonium was a small portable such as those used in the trenches.
‘Berliner Requiem’ by Kurt Weill – written for Harmonium, Winds, Guitar & Banjo. 21mins
6 poems by Brecht – whose subjects are war and dying.
‘Requiem’ by Puccini. A very short work. For Harmonium, Viola & Voices
‘Otcenas’ (Our Father) by Janacek – another short work originally written for Harmonium,
Harp & Voices. 18mins.
Messe des Pecheurs de Villerville by Faure/Messager. For Harmonium in ensemble & Voices.
Originally scored for Harmonium & Violin
Grainger P various songs for Solo & Choir with Harmonium & ensemble
A delightful addition can also be a short set of Piano & Harmonium Duos played before the Rossini. Widor composed such a set, so did Saint-Saens. Also Guilmant & Karg-Elert.
Jonathan Scott has arranged a number of classic pieces to be played on Harmonium & Piano.
(See the Scott Brothers CD for Harmonium & Piano)