Composer

:

James MacMillan

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Tone Poem

Compose Date

:

1996

Average_duration

:

21:40

"The World's Ransoming" is a choral work composed by James MacMillan in 1996. It was premiered on May 11, 1996, by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and Chorus at the City Hall in Glasgow, Scotland. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, titled "The World's Ransoming," is a powerful and dramatic setting of a text by the medieval mystic, St. John of the Cross. The music is characterized by driving rhythms, dissonant harmonies, and intense choral declamation. The text speaks of the sacrifice of Christ on the cross and the redemption of humanity through his death. The second movement, titled "The Lamb has Redeemed Us," is a more contemplative and introspective setting of a text by the 17th-century poet, Richard Crashaw. The music is characterized by lush harmonies, soaring melodies, and a sense of quiet reverence. The text speaks of the love of Christ and the hope of salvation that it brings. The third and final movement, titled "Love Bade Me Welcome," is a setting of a text by the 17th-century poet, George Herbert. The music is characterized by gentle, flowing melodies, and a sense of warmth and intimacy. The text speaks of the invitation of Christ to all people to come and partake of his love and grace. Overall, "The World's Ransoming" is a powerful and moving work that explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and love. MacMillan's use of choral declamation, dissonant harmonies, and lush harmonies creates a sense of drama and intensity that is both compelling and deeply moving. The work has become a staple of the choral repertoire and is widely regarded as one of MacMillan's most significant works.

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