Composer

:

Richard Whilds

Genre

:

Vocal

Average_duration

:

3:43

"Maria, che dolce nome (after Campetti)" is a choral composition by Richard Whilds. It was composed in 2018 and premiered on December 16, 2018, by the St. Mary's Cathedral Choir in Edinburgh, Scotland. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement begins with a gentle and flowing melody, sung by the choir in unison. The music gradually builds in intensity as the choir adds harmonies and counterpoint. The text of this movement is taken from a poem by the Italian poet Giovanni Battista Campetti, which praises the beauty and grace of the Virgin Mary. The second movement is more contemplative in nature, with a slower tempo and more complex harmonies. The choir sings a series of questions and answers, exploring the mysteries of faith and the role of Mary in the Christian tradition. The text for this movement is also taken from Campetti's poetry. The final movement is the most exuberant and joyful of the three. The choir sings a lively and rhythmic melody, accompanied by a driving piano part. The text for this movement is a traditional hymn to Mary, celebrating her as the mother of God and the source of all grace and mercy. Throughout the piece, Whilds employs a variety of choral techniques and textures, from simple unison singing to complex polyphony. He also makes use of dynamic contrasts and changes in tempo to create a sense of drama and emotional intensity. The result is a powerful and moving tribute to the Virgin Mary, and a testament to the enduring power of choral music.

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