Composer

:

James MacMillan

Genre

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

2010

Average_duration

:

15:20

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

"Seraph" is a choral work composed by James MacMillan in 1994. It was premiered on October 22, 1994, by the BBC Singers and the Endymion Ensemble at St. Paul's Church in Knightsbridge, London. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, titled "Seraph," is a setting of the Latin text "Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus" (Holy, Holy, Holy). It begins with a soft, ethereal choral introduction, which gradually builds in intensity as the orchestra enters. The music is characterized by soaring melodies and rich harmonies, with the choir and orchestra often trading off musical ideas. The movement ends with a powerful climax, as the choir sings the word "Sanctus" in unison. The second movement, titled "The Strathclyde Motets," is a set of three pieces based on texts from the Book of Isaiah. The first motet, "Data est mihi," is a setting of Isaiah 22:22 ("And I will place on his shoulder the key of the house of David"). The music is characterized by a driving rhythm and angular melodies, with the choir and orchestra often in rhythmic conflict. The second motet, "Factus est repente," is a setting of Isaiah 48:3 ("I have declared the former things from the beginning; and they went forth out of my mouth, and I shewed them; I did them suddenly, and they came to pass"). The music is more contemplative, with long, sustained choral lines and a haunting melody in the orchestra. The third motet, "O Radiant Dawn," is a setting of Isaiah 60:1-3 ("Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee"). The music is joyful and exuberant, with the choir and orchestra trading off musical ideas and building to a triumphant climax. The final movement, titled "Christus Vincit," is a setting of the Latin text "Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat" (Christ conquers, Christ reigns, Christ rules). The music is characterized by a driving rhythm and powerful choral writing, with the choir and orchestra often in rhythmic conflict. The movement ends with a triumphant climax, as the choir sings the words "Christus vincit" in unison. Overall, "Seraph" is a powerful and moving work, characterized by soaring melodies, rich harmonies, and rhythmic intensity. It showcases MacMillan's skill as a composer of choral music, and is a testament to his deep faith and commitment to his art.

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