Composer

:

Francis Poulenc

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1951

Average_duration

:

2:55

Francis Poulenc's 'Videntes stellam, FP 152/3' is a choral work that was composed in 1951. It was premiered on December 23, 1951, at the Église Saint-Roch 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. 'Videntes stellam' is the third movement of the 'Quatre motets pour le temps de Noël'. The piece is written for four-part mixed choir (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is based on a Latin text from the Gospel of Matthew. The text describes the journey of the Magi to Bethlehem to see the newborn Jesus, guided by a star. The piece begins with a slow and mysterious introduction, with the choir singing in unison. The music gradually builds in intensity as the choir sings the words "Videntes stellam" (Seeing the star). The music then shifts to a faster tempo as the choir sings about the Magi's journey to Bethlehem. The music is joyful and celebratory, with the choir singing in harmony and accompanied by a lively piano part. The middle section of the piece is more contemplative, with the choir singing softly and slowly. The music builds in intensity once again as the choir sings about the Magi's arrival in Bethlehem and their worship of the newborn Jesus. The music is triumphant and joyful, with the choir singing in harmony and accompanied by a lively piano part. The piece ends with a return to the slow and mysterious music of the opening, with the choir singing softly and slowly. The music fades away to nothing, leaving the listener with a sense of wonder and awe. Overall, 'Videntes stellam' is a beautiful and uplifting piece of music that captures the joy and wonder of the Christmas story. The music is characterized by Poulenc's signature use of rich harmonies and expressive melodies, as well as his skillful use of choral textures and dynamics.

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