Composer

:

John Ireland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1944

Average_duration

:

3:30

Ex ore innocentium is a choral work composed by John Ireland in 1921. It was premiered on 22nd December 1921 at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. The piece is a setting of a poem by William Chatterton Dix, which is a hymn for children. The work is written for a four-part choir, with the accompaniment of an organ. The piece is divided into three movements. The first movement is marked "Moderato," and it begins with a gentle organ introduction. The choir then enters with a simple melody, which is repeated several times throughout the movement. The harmonies are mostly diatonic, with occasional chromaticism. The movement ends with a quiet organ postlude. The second movement is marked "Andante con moto," and it begins with a solo soprano singing the first verse of the poem. The choir then enters with a more complex melody, which is accompanied by a flowing organ part. The harmonies are more chromatic in this movement, with frequent use of diminished chords. The movement ends with a quiet coda, with the choir singing the final verse of the poem. The third movement is marked "Allegro moderato," and it begins with a lively organ introduction. The choir then enters with a joyful melody, which is accompanied by a rhythmic organ part. The harmonies are mostly diatonic, with occasional use of chromaticism. The movement ends with a triumphant organ postlude. The characteristics of Ex ore innocentium are typical of John Ireland's style. The piece is characterized by its simple melodies, diatonic harmonies, and occasional use of chromaticism. The work is also notable for its use of the organ, which provides a rich and colorful accompaniment to the choir. The piece is well-suited for performance in a church setting, and it has become a popular choral work in the repertoire.

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