UNIVERSALISM OF THE SPIRITUAL MUSIC OF THE BRITISH COMPOSER JOHN RUTTER

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to determine the stylistic features and universality aspects of musical language of the choral and orchestral works of the British composer J. Rutter.

Research methodology. Materials of research literature are studied by logical, historical, chronological, problem-chronological, and musical analysis method.

Results. The origins of Christian music are lost in the depths of many centuries. The dual attitude of church leaders to music as a distraction from the true worship of God has been characteristic since the time of Plato. Eventually, singing became an integral part of the liturgy. John Rutter is an outstanding English composer, choral conductor, and musicologist. J. Rutter’s music is perceived through the prism of the ancient English choral tradition. J. Rutter synthesized the best traditions of choral music, his music shows the influence of French and English choral traditions of the early twentieth century. On the other hand, J. Rutter's music echoes the inspired lyricism of the Beatles' music, the brilliant concert style of  P. Tchaikovsky, S. Rachmaninoff, and the high mastery of B. Britten's choral works. The multi-layered harmony and rhythm, combining elements of jazz, skillful instrumentation, textual and melodic quotations borrowed from composers of past eras, melodic ingenuity, and divine simplicity give J. Ratter's music an extraordinary depth. J. Rutter's creation of «Children's Mass», in which the main role is given to the children's choir as a symbol of innocence, sincerity and purity, testifies to the composer's attempt to take choral art to a new level. J. Rutter created his own unique and inimitable style – «Rutter style».

The practical significance. The research materials can be used in lectures and seminars on the history of modern foreign musical culture in secondary and higher educational institutions.