Gašper Jereb
Wedding Mass
Duration: 14'
Choir: mixed choir
Instrumentation details:
flute
soprano saxophone in Bb
organ
violin
violoncello
Wedding Mass
Sample pages
Work introduction
Wedding Mass by Gašper Jereb: A Unique Blend of Tradition and Personal Expression
"Wedding Mass" by Slovenian composer Gašper Jereb stands out as an example of sacred music that merges traditional liturgical elements with contemporary instrumentation and personal significance. Composed in 2016 for Jereb's own wedding, the piece is a deeply intimate and celebratory work that reflects both the sanctity of the occasion and the composer's artistic voice.
The composition is written for a mixed choir, soprano saxophone, flute, violin, cello, and organ. This unconventional ensemble creates a rich palette of timbres, blending traditional sacred music's solemnity with modern instruments' expressive capabilities. The inclusion of the soprano saxophone, an instrument less commonly associated with liturgical settings, adds a unique, lyrical quality that complements the ethereal tones of the flute and strings.
The Mass begins with a grandiose introduction that immediately establishes a celebratory and reverent atmosphere. The opening section weaves in texts from the Song of Songs ("Visoka pesem" in Slovene), a biblical text often associated with themes of love and devotion. This incorporation enriches the liturgical framework with poetic and personal resonance.
The text of the Mass is set in Latin, underscoring its connection to the broader tradition of sacred music while allowing the timeless beauty of the language to enhance the musical expression. The interplay between the choir and instrumental ensemble is carefully crafted, with moments of antiphonal dialogue and harmonic unity that emphasize key liturgical moments.
Gašper Jereb’s "Wedding Mass" is a testament to the power of sacred music to capture the essence of both personal joy and spiritual devotion. Its innovative instrumentation and thoughtful integration of traditional and personal elements significantly contribute to contemporary sacred music. This composition not only honours the solemnity of the wedding ceremony but also highlights Jereb’s skill as a composer who bridges tradition and modernity with elegance and emotional depth.