"Sunrise Mass" for Choir and String Orchestra

Norwegian composer OLA GJEILO is one of the most frequently performed composers in today’s choral world. Born and raised in Skui, Norway, he grew up in a family that listened not only to classical music but also to jazz, pop, and folk. He began playing the piano and composing at a young age, later studying at the Norwegian Academy of Music (1999–2001) and the Royal College of Music in London (2002–2004), where he earned his bachelor’s degree in composition. He continued his studies at The Juilliard School (2004–2006), completing a master’s degree in composition. From 2009 to 2010, he served as composer‑in‑residence for the Phoenix Chorale. His professional career has since developed primarily in the United States. Gjeilo’s music is known for its stylistic and sonic diversity. Among his major works are "Sunrise Mass" for strings and choir; Dreamweaver for choir, piano, and string orchestra, based on a text from a well‑known medieval Norwegian ballad; and River for choir, piano, and string quartet. In addition to his choral output, he has composed piano works, a symphony for wind ensemble, and other instrumental pieces. His music is published by Walton Music (choral), Boosey & Hawkes (wind ensemble), and Chester Music (piano). He is an exclusive recording artist with Decca Classics. Оla Gjeilo says of her “Sunrise Mass” for choir and strings: The reason I used English titles for each movement in this setting of the Latin Mass has to do with the initial idea behind Sunrise Mass. I wanted the musical journey of the work to evolve from transparent and spacey to something earthy and warm; from nebulous and pristine, through more emotional landscapes, to ultimately solid groundedness – as a metaphor for human development from child to adult, or as a spiritual journey. The piece is also inspired by several movies and film scores from the past few years that I love dearly. The composer retains the sections of the Latin Mass, while the English titles depict a metaphysical journey toward self-knowledge. The first section - The Spheres (Kyrie) - depicts the cosmos and the stars. The second part - Sunrise (Gloria) - represents dawn, light, and spiritual awakening. The third part - The City (Credo) - depicts the intense life within it. The concept of the fourth part - Identity and Earth (Sanctus / Benedictus & Agnus Dei) - focuses on personal self-discovery and the pursuit of universal peace; it is inspired by the music of Johann Sebastian Bach.