Composer

:

Michael Finnissy

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Average_duration

:

2:48

"Stabant autem iuxta crucem" is a choral work composed by Michael Finnissy in 2000. The piece was premiered on 7th October 2000 at St. John's Smith Square in London, performed by the New London Chamber Choir. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different text. The first movement is based on the Latin text "Stabant autem iuxta crucem" (They stood by the cross), which is taken from the Gospel of John. The second movement is based on a poem by the 17th-century English poet Richard Crashaw, titled "The Weeper". The third movement is based on a text by the contemporary British poet Peter Riley, titled "The Crucifixion". The first movement is characterized by its use of dense harmonies and dissonant chords, which create a sense of tension and unease. The choir sings in a homophonic style, with all voices moving together in block chords. The second movement is more lyrical and expressive, with the choir singing in a more melodic style. The third movement is more complex, with the choir singing in a polyphonic style, with different voices singing different melodies at the same time. Overall, "Stabant autem iuxta crucem" is a powerful and emotional work that explores the themes of suffering, sacrifice, and redemption. Finnissy's use of dense harmonies and complex textures creates a sense of intensity and drama, while the use of different texts adds depth and meaning to the work. The piece is a testament to Finnissy's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both challenging and deeply moving.

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