I am as impatient as anyone when the setting of the Mass goes on and on for no good reason. I am impatient especially when the singing is desultory, e.g., when a motionless duple beat is imposed on the counterpoint.
I am still laughing, yes, laughing, at the ending of the Gloria of last Sunday's singing of the Messe de Tournai, the first written setting of the Mass. It was a festive occasion in the life of the parish of St. Ignatius of Antioch, but nothing prepared me for that Amen, that went on.... and on... and on... and refused to pronounce the ultimate "n" for the longest while. Ordinarily I would have been annoyed.
I think it will turn into one of those liturgical moments that I will not forget. Thanks to James Kennerley for that superb singing.
