Composer

:

James Whitbourn

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

19:46

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Missa Carolae is a choral work composed by James Whitbourn in 1994. It was premiered on December 18, 1994, at St. Luke's Church in London, England. The work is divided into six movements, each of which is based on a traditional Christmas carol. The first movement, "Personent Hodie," is a lively and rhythmic setting of the 16th-century carol. The second movement, "In Dulci Jubilo," is a more contemplative and introspective setting of the carol. The third movement, "The Angel Gabriel," is a gentle and ethereal setting of the Basque carol. The fourth movement, "O Magnum Mysterium," is a powerful and dramatic setting of the Latin text. The fifth movement, "Coventry Carol," is a haunting and mournful setting of the traditional English carol. The final movement, "Ding Dong Merrily on High," is a joyful and exuberant setting of the 16th-century carol. The characteristics of Missa Carolae are its use of traditional Christmas carols as the basis for each movement, its incorporation of both Latin and English texts, and its blending of traditional and contemporary musical styles. The work is scored for SATB choir, organ, and optional percussion. Overall, Missa Carolae is a beautiful and engaging choral work that captures the spirit of Christmas through its use of traditional carols and its powerful and emotive musical language.

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