Composer

:

Einojuhani Rautavaara

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1971 - 1996

First Performance

:

Aug 28, 1971

Average_duration

:

63:57

'Vigilia' is a choral work composed by Einojuhani Rautavaara in 1971. The piece was premiered in Helsinki, Finland, on November 27, 1971, by the Finnish Radio Chamber Choir under the direction of Eric-Olof Söderström. The work is divided into six movements, each of which is based on a different text from the Russian Orthodox liturgy. The first movement, "Come, Let Us Worship," is a joyful and celebratory piece that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The second movement, "Bless the Lord, O My Soul," is a more contemplative piece that features a solo soprano voice and a hauntingly beautiful melody. The third movement, "O Gladsome Light," is a hymn of praise that features a soaring soprano solo and a lush choral accompaniment. The fourth movement, "Praise the Name of the Lord," is a lively and rhythmic piece that features a driving percussion accompaniment. The fifth movement, "Blessed is the Man," is a slow and mournful piece that features a solo bass voice and a hauntingly beautiful melody. The final movement, "The Great Doxology," is a triumphant and celebratory piece that brings the work to a rousing conclusion. Throughout the work, Rautavaara employs a wide range of choral textures and harmonies, from lush and complex to sparse and simple. He also makes use of a variety of vocal techniques, including chanting, whispering, and shouting, to create a sense of drama and intensity. Overall, 'Vigilia' is a powerful and moving work that showcases Rautavaara's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of the Russian Orthodox liturgy. Its combination of traditional choral elements with modern harmonies and techniques makes it a unique and compelling addition to the choral repertoire.

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