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 and 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 *
