Composer

:

Gregorian Chant

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Average_duration

:

4:00

In illo tempore: Exiit edictum..., Luke II, 1-14 is a Gregorian Chant that is believed to have been composed in the 8th century. The chant is based on the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 2, verses 1-14, which tells the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. The chant is typically performed during the Christmas season and is often used as part of the liturgy in Catholic and Orthodox churches. It is a part of the Proper of the Mass and is sung during the Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. The chant is divided into several movements, each of which corresponds to a different section of the Gospel story. The first movement begins with the words "Exiit edictum a Caesare Augusto" (A decree went out from Caesar Augustus) and sets the scene for the story. The second movement begins with the words "Et erat Joseph" (And Joseph also went up) and tells of Joseph's journey to Bethlehem with Mary. The third movement begins with the words "Et pastores erant in regione eadem" (And there were shepherds in the same region) and tells of the appearance of the angels to the shepherds. The fourth movement begins with the words "Gloria in excelsis Deo" (Glory to God in the highest) and is a hymn of praise to God. The final movement begins with the words "Et postquam impleti sunt dies octo" (And when eight days were fulfilled) and tells of the circumcision of Jesus. The characteristics of the chant include its simplicity and its use of plainchant, which is a form of monophonic, unaccompanied singing. The chant is also characterized by its use of Latin, which was the language of the Catholic Church at the time of its composition. Overall, In illo tempore: Exiit edictum..., Luke II, 1-14 is a beautiful and timeless piece of music that has been a part of the Christmas tradition for centuries. Its simple yet powerful melody and its message of hope and joy continue to inspire and uplift people around the world.

More....