The Vineyard of the Lord
By Kevin Keil
This is a remarkable collection of Mass settings and seasonal music that includes ritual music for some moments in the liturgy where musical selections are rare. Classical in form yet modern in style, songs in this collection cover music for all liturgical seasons, with arrangements for Advent, Christmas Lent and Easter.
Kevin's Mass setting, In Memory of Me, is included in The Vineyard of the Lord collection. It's a contemporary, high-energy composition and contains a wonderful setting of the Eucharistic Prayer for Various Needs and Occasions. The various Mass parts are linked by a strong melody suitably accented by hints of jazz. In particular, the trumpet melody in the Holy complements the beautifully intertwined vocal harmonies.
The vocal writing is very accessible, with unison singing and a soprano descant. These parts work well with solo piano and can be enhanced by the addition of other instruments.
Note: This collection contains some Mass parts that are no longer approved for liturgical use.