Composer

:

Kerensa Briggs

Genre

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2015

Average_duration

:

03:01

"Media Vita" is a choral work composed by Kerensa Briggs in 2016. The piece was premiered on March 12, 2016, by the Choir of Trinity College, Cambridge, under the direction of Stephen Layton. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and musical style. The first movement, "In the Midst of Life," is a setting of the Latin antiphon "Media Vita in Morte Sumus." The music is somber and reflective, with a slow and mournful melody that is passed between the different sections of the choir. The harmonies are rich and complex, with dissonances that create a sense of tension and unease. The movement ends with a quiet and contemplative section that fades away into silence. The second movement, "The Tree of Life," is a setting of a text by Hildegard von Bingen. The music is more upbeat and energetic than the first movement, with a lively and rhythmic melody that is accompanied by a pulsing bass line. The harmonies are brighter and more consonant, with a sense of joy and celebration. The movement ends with a triumphant and exultant section that builds to a powerful climax. The third movement, "In Paradisum," is a setting of the Latin antiphon of the same name. The music is ethereal and otherworldly, with a haunting melody that is sung by the sopranos and altos. The harmonies are sparse and open, with a sense of space and timelessness. The movement ends with a quiet and peaceful section that fades away into silence. Overall, "Media Vita" is a powerful and moving work that explores themes of life, death, and the afterlife. The music is rich and complex, with a sense of depth and meaning that is enhanced by the beautiful and evocative texts. The work is a testament to the skill and creativity of Kerensa Briggs, and a fitting tribute to the human experience.

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