Ordo Missae in cantu

Overview of "Ordo Missae in Cantu"

Publication Details:

• Title: Ordo Missae in Cantu
• Publisher: Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Solesmes
• Language: Latin
• Publication Year: 1975
• ISBN: 9782852742062 (for the 2012 edition, though the 1975 edition is more commonly referenced)

Key Themes:

1. Liturgical Music and Chants: The book provides musical settings for the Novus Ordo Mass, including chants for the prefaces, Eucharistic prayers, and various introductory rites. It aims to offer a comprehensive guide for clergy and musicians to celebrate the sung liturgy in Latin.

2. Gregorian Chant: It focuses on authentic Gregorian chants, eliminating many pieces that had cluttered earlier editions. The book includes settings for both solemn and simple tones, reflecting the need for new musical compositions to accompany the revised liturgical texts introduced by the Second Vatican Council.

3. Liturgical Reform: The publication is part of the broader liturgical reform initiated by the Second Vatican Council. It addresses the challenges posed by the council's directives, such as the introduction of new feasts and the rearrangement of introits and communions.

Plot Summary: The book is not a narrative but a liturgical manual. It contains musical notation and settings for various parts of the Mass, including the priest's chants at the chair and altar, opening prayers, and Eucharistic prayers. It provides a structured guide for liturgical celebrations, ensuring that the musical elements align with the revised liturgical texts and calendar introduced by the council.

Critical Reception: While specific reviews of the book are not provided in the sources, the context suggests that it was well-received by liturgical musicians and clergy who sought to implement the reforms of the Second Vatican Council. The publication by the monks of Solesmes, known for their scholarly research and sound methodology, adds credibility to the book's content and approach. The book's focus on authentic Gregorian chants and its comprehensive nature make it a valuable resource for those involved in liturgical music.

In summary, "Ordo Missae in Cantu" is a liturgical music manual that provides essential musical settings for the Novus Ordo Mass, emphasizing authentic Gregorian chants and aligning with the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council. Its critical reception is positive, reflecting its utility and scholarly approach in the context of liturgical music and reform.