Choirs

The music of the Traditional Latin Mass (TLM) is characterized by the exclusive use of Ecclesial Latin texts set to plain chant particularly Gregorian, and classical polyphony. 

Chant is the primary musical form of the Roman Rite. It is monophonic (a single melodic line) and a cappella (unaccompanied by instruments), featuring a free-flowing rhythm that follows the natural accentuation of the Latin text. Chant is used for both the Ordinary (parts that remain the same in every Mass, such as the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei) and the Proper (parts that change daily, such as the Introit, Gradual, Alleluia, Offertory, and Communion). Specific collections of chants, known as Mass Settings are selected based on the liturgical season or feast day. 

Polyphony is the second major style, particularly from the Renaissance period. This music features multiple independent vocal lines woven together in complex harmony. Composers such as Palestrina, Tomas Luis de Victoria, and Orlande de Lassus are standard repertoire. Polyphony is often used for the Ordinary or specific motets during the Offertory or Communion. While rich and complex, it is selected and applied to ensure it maintains a sacred character and does not obscure the liturgy.

Hymns are typically not sung during Mass but may be sung before Mass begins during the processional or after the final blessing during the recessional. The liturgy itself is conducted entirely in Latin.

Latin Chant and Choral Music for the Mass