Ionian Mass
Ian writes: " There are very many wonderful settings of the text of the Mass, going back centuries, and many choristers and listeners, regardless of their religious beliefs, or lack of them, have a deep-seated appreciation for the structure and rhythms of these works and for the sense of wonder they convey.
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I wondered if there was a way to use the same basic structure, but with a different text, one that reflected my own, humanistic, beliefs, whilst retaining an appropriate sense of humility and awe.
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After much searching I was not able to find exactly the text I wanted and so decided to create one from scratch. I think it serves my purpose and I hope it makes up for any shortcomings as poetry by being, at least, honest.
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The title of the work was inspired by a YouTube clip of Carl Sagan's TV series Cosmos in which he describes the birth of science in the work of philosophers living in ancient Ionia. These pre-Socratic philosophers rejected supernatural explanations of natural phenomena and believed that the behaviour of the natural world might be studied and understood. "Ionian" is also the name of a musical mode, a coincidence which I like very much and which helped to shape the harmonic language of the piece, particularly the first movement.
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Although I have not used a religious text it was very important to me that people of faith would not be disturbed or affronted by the work. So far reaction to it has been entirely positive. "
The work is in five movements, mirroring the traditional sections of the Mass.
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1. Mercy. This mirrors the 'Kyrie' movement (Lord, have mercy on us). A view of Earth from space, echoing Carl Sagan's description of Earth as photographed by the Voyager spacecraft: a "Pale Blue Dot".
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2. Glory. This mirrors the traditional 'Gloria' movement. A hymn to the wonders of science and discovery.
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3. Truth. Mirrors the 'Credo' movement. A procession of scientists is counterpointed with a statement of belief in Enlightenment values.
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4. Sun. Mirrors the 'Sanctus' movement. A hymn to the Sun as the source of our power and sustainer of life.
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5. Peace. Mirroring the traditional 'Agnus Dei/Dona Nobis Pacem' sequence, this movement references the 'Spaceship Earth' idea of Canadian Philosopher Marshal McLuhan and ends with a gentle plea for peace.
Recording
A CD of the work featuring the Vaughan Williams Singers and others, with Jan Assersohn (piano), conducted by the composer is available on request.
Support for performances
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Ian is delighted to work with choirs preparing performances of his music, either by attending a rehearsal or by conducting a workshop tailored to your requirements. Get in touch to discuss.
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A complete set of rehearsal tracks is available at no charge on request.