The LmcsL (Laboratorio di musica contemporanea al servizio della Liturgia) was created in Milan to foster a "third way" in sacred music, moving beyond both traditionalism and simplistic contemporary attempts.
Compositional Technique
The reorganization of the Mass form for this project focuses on the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, framed by introductory and concluding rites, rather than the traditional proprium and ordinarium sections.
Composition History
This album features two distinct Mass settings, one reflecting the Easter season with themes of light and hope, and the other the Advent season with an atmosphere of tension and hope.
Interpretation
The composers were challenged to involve the assembly of the faithful, symbolized by a choir whose part was simple enough to be doubled by the congregation, a departure from traditional liturgical music.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The composers involved in this project aimed to maintain their individual compositional identity while also simplifying their writing for direct communication with a diverse, faith-united audience.
Recording & Production
This album is a live recording from the Basilica di San Marco, Milan, captured on December 22, 1999, with Renato Campajola serving as both artistic director and recording engineer.
Historical Context
The project to renew liturgical music, which led to this album, was inspired by the Second Vatican Council's (1962-1966) call for renewed liturgical breath and Pope John Paul II's 1999 letter to artists.
