Italian.

At the end of December 1930, Nino Rota travelled to the United States of America where he was accepted at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia upon the recommendation of Arturo Toscanini. One year later, he composed Four Canons: four short compositions the lyrics of which are based on Italian love poems from the 15th and 16th centuries. The madrigal-like style of the unison canons testifies to an innovativeness which goes far beyond a simple study work.

Latin.

Rota's Mass for choir and organ is published in two editions: for three-part mixed choir and for four-part male choir, each with organ. The organ part is identical in both editions. As a consequence, it is possible to perform the work with varying choir ensembles. The mass, with Latin text, is suitable both for amateur choirs and performance in small churches or concert halls.