Chilcott's is a remarkable achievement in that he has written music that is approachable but never sugary, and jazz-infused but in no way irreligious. Doubtless there will be some who will consider a Jazz Mass inappropriate for liturgical use, but that number will surely diminish upon hearing either of Chilcott's . . . The Kyrie from the Little Jazz Mass ... Read moreand the Agnus Dei from the Nidaros Jazz Mass is where to start if you need to be convinced of this genre.
Jeremy Summerly, Choir & Organ November 2012
You can guess from the title whether or not this is suitable for your choir, and you know it's meant to be fun when the Gloria is marked 'with a swing' and the Agnus Dei conjures up the blues. I would prefer not to be in the audience for a performance of this, but only because I'd want to be taking part instead.
Armin Zanner, Music Teacher May 2005
A little more challenging is his setting of the Latin Missa Brevis, that combines a deep love of jazz with the practicalities of real performance . . . The five movements use a variety of jazz styles, and it makes a very welcome alternative to existing settings. The publicity from Oxford University Press comments "This is gorgeous, soulful music in an utterly original setting", and they could be right!
Singing, Winter 04
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