Dominus dixit ad me

Brian Luckner’s anthem, Dominus dixit ad me (SSATB, handbells, oboe, brass quartet, organ… is plucked straight out of the Gregorain chant repertory, and manages to do it in a somewhat less diaphanous manner than some other chant-based pieces have done. The Introit for Chirstmas Midnight Mass is here qouted in toto, cast in a fluid but rhythmic framework. Starting rather mysteriously at the outset, oboe and handbells are effectively brought into the fabric of the piece. This work carefully submits to the antiphon/psalm verse/antiphon Introit form and is thus entirely liturgical by intent. At the return of the antiphon, the score becomes much more expansive, and only the outline of the chant is suggested. The oboe wisely doubles the first soprano part, as it ascends to two high B-flats. In my mind’s ear, I hear a very capable choir singing this piece, preparatory to the opening hymn/carol. While it captures the very quiet side of the mystery of Verbum caro factus est, it nicely prepares us for the joys of festive clangor that are sure to follow. Cue up Hymn 87, please!
Monte Mason, AAM Journal
October 18, 2005