Roberto Sierra's Missa Latina

This dissertation presents an examination of Roberto Sierra's Missa Latina (2003-2005). Missa Latina was co-commissioned and premiered on February 2, 2006 by the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington Choral Arts Society under the direction of Leonard Slatkin. This seventy-five minute work for soprano and baritone soloists, choir and full modern orchestra received critical acclaim and has been referred to as a modern masterwork. Roberto Sierra's choral music is considered through historical perspectives and musical analysis. Historical perspectives include a biography of Sierra which describes his musical output and focuses on his choral music, particularly Sierra's use of Caribbean rhythmic elements and contemporary idioms rooted in the fabric of his music. The analysis of the Missa Latina also examines the unifying compositional elements. In addition, this study examines the Puerto Rican choral music tradition. It is hoped that this comprehensive overview of the Missa Latina will provide understanding of the structure of this work and serve as a resource for its performance.