Composer

:

Francis Poulenc

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1951

Average_duration

:

2:32

Francis Poulenc's 'Quem vidistis pastores, FP 152/2' is a sacred choral work that was composed in 1951. It was premiered on December 16, 1951, by the Choeur de la Radiodiffusion Française, conducted by Marcel Couraud, in Paris, France. The piece is part of a larger work called 'Quatre motets pour le temps de Noël' (Four Christmas Motets), which was composed between 1951 and 1952. 'Quem vidistis pastores' is the second movement of the motet cycle and is based on a Latin text that tells the story of the shepherds who witnessed the birth of Jesus Christ. The piece is written for four-part mixed choir (SATB) and is characterized by its simple yet expressive harmonies and melodies. Poulenc's use of dissonance and chromaticism adds a sense of tension and drama to the piece, which is particularly effective in the opening bars. The piece begins with a unison chant-like melody in the tenor and bass voices, which is then taken up by the soprano and alto voices. The choir then breaks into four-part harmony, with the melody passing between the different voices. Poulenc's use of homophonic textures and occasional polyphony creates a sense of unity and cohesion within the piece. The middle section of the piece features a solo soprano voice singing the text "Natum vidimus et choros angelorum collaudantes Dominum" (We have seen the newborn and the choirs of angels praising the Lord). This section is characterized by its soaring melody and expressive phrasing, which contrasts with the more subdued opening section. The piece ends with a return to the opening material, with the choir singing the final lines of the text in unison. The final chord is a simple yet powerful major triad, which brings the piece to a satisfying conclusion. Overall, 'Quem vidistis pastores' is a beautiful and expressive choral work that showcases Poulenc's skill as a composer. Its simple yet effective harmonies and melodies, combined with its expressive text setting, make it a popular choice for Christmas concerts and church services.

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