Ad Orientem
A 3 minute apologia pro ad orientem. Why the priest should face God and not the people.
Lenten Gospel Acclamations
In this post, I invite you to take a quick look at one possible option for your lenten gospel acclamation.
“Woman, behold Thy son…”
James J. Richardson introduces his newest motet, “Múlier, ecce filius tuus” (“Woman, behold Thy son…”) from the Seven Last Words of Christ.
In the sight of the angels…
James discusses his setting of Psalm 138 “In the sight of the angels, I will sing Your praises, Lord!” — adapted 1:1 from a gregorian antiphon which treats the same text.
Puer Natus Est • Manuscript Fun!
Ancient manuscripts can be made fit for singing by modern choirs. Here we treat “Puer Natus Est” for Christmas Mass.
Psalterium Currens Project
Take a look at the Psalterium Currens project, which is an expert recording of all 150 psalms!
Benedicat tibi Dominus ex Sion (Psalm 128)
James discusses adapting the melody found in two ancient Cistercian antiphonales into a new chant-inspired psalm setting of Psalm 128 (127).
Exspectans Exspectavi
James discusses reviving and adapting into english the offertory chant found in the Einsiedeln Antiphonarium, a 700 year old manuscript full of ancient chants.
The Queen Stands • Astitit Regina
Psalm 45: “The Queen stands at Your right hand, arrayed in gold.” as set by James J. Richardson, referencing early 14th century manuscripts which set the original latin antiphon “Astitit Regina”.
Psalm 145 • The Hand of the Lord (Oculi Omnium)
James Richardson discusses his compositional inspiration for his setting of Psalm 145, “The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs.” (Based upon the Gradual, Oculi Omnium)
Psalm 23: Dominus regit me
James discusses his setting of Psalm 23 “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.” based upon the traditional chant “Dominus Regit Me”.
Psalm 123 • Our eyes are fixed on the Lord
A brief reflection upon Psalm 123 and the compositional choices made whilst basing it upon the Tract, Ad te levavi oculos meos.