Gloria

musical mass

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June 29, 2026

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The "Gloria" is a Christian liturgical hymn of praise, often referred to as the "greater doxology". It is a significant part of the ordinary of the mass in Roman Catholic and Anglican traditions. The text, which translates to "Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth," is sung after the penitential rite and the Kyrie, except during Lent and Christmas.12345

The "Gloria" has been a focal point for choral music for over 600 years, with composers like Guillaume de Machaut, John Dunstable, and Guillaume Dufay creating notable settings. Throughout history, composers have developed various musical styles for the "Gloria," from plainchant to complex polyphony and orchestral arrangements.34

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Gregorian chant
The Gloria appeared in the 7th century. The psalmodic recitation, i.e., using psalm tones, simple formulas for the intoned reciting of psalms, of early Glorias attests to their ancient origin. Later Gloria chants are neumatic. The melodies of the Credo, accepted into the mass about the…
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The Gloria appeared in the 7th century. The psalmodic recitation, i.e., using psalm tones, simple formulas for the intoned reciting of psalms, of early Glorias attests to their ancient origin. Later Gloria chants are neumatic. The melodies of the Credo, accepted into the mass about the…
Read More