Missa Festiva

Immerse yourself in the sacred and captivating world of Flor Peeters, one of the most significant Catholic composers of the twentieth century, with the release of "Missa Festiva." This album, released on July 22, 2022, under the Ad Fontes label, is a testament to Peeters' profound musical legacy, featuring a collection of his most revered choral works.

The centerpiece of the album is the popular "Missa Festiva, Op. 62," a majestic and uplifting mass that showcases Peeters' mastery of choral writing. Under the direction of Rupert Gough, this work is presented with added brass parts, enhancing its grandeur and making it a standout piece on the album. The "Missa in honorem Sancti Josephi, Op. 21," another notable mass, is also included, offering a more intimate and reflective contrast to the festive nature of the "Missa Festiva."

The album also features several premiere recordings, including the enchanting "Ave Maria, Op. 9 No. 2" and the serene "Ave verum, Op. 63 No. 1." These pieces, along with others like the "Magnificat, Op. 108" and the "Ego sum panis, Op. 9 No. 1," demonstrate Peeters' versatility and depth as a composer.

Recorded in the acoustically stunning Buckfast Abbey, the album benefits from the exceptional talents of the Choir of Royal Holloway, Onyx Brass, and organists Matthew Searles and George Nicholls. Their combined efforts bring to life the rich harmonies and intricate counterpoint that are hallmarks of Peeters' style.

With a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, "Missa Festiva" is a comprehensive exploration of Flor Peeters' choral music, offering both familiar favorites and new discoveries. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Peeters' work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to inspire and uplift, providing a deeply moving and spiritually enriching experience.