Composer

:

Hildegard von Bingen

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Antiphon

Compose Date

:

ca. 1140 - 1179

Average_duration

:

5:00

"Cum processit" is a sacred vocal composition composed by Hildegard von Bingen, a German Benedictine abbess, writer, composer, and philosopher of the 12th century. The piece is part of her collection of liturgical chants known as the "Symphonia armonie celestium revelationum" (Symphony of the Harmony of Celestial Revelations), which consists of 77 chants and hymns. The exact date of composition of "Cum processit" is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the 1150s. The piece is written in plainchant, a monophonic form of medieval liturgical music that consists of a single melody without accompaniment. "Cum processit" is divided into two movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a solo chant sung by a female voice, while the second movement is a choral response sung by a group of voices. The first movement begins with a simple melody sung in a low register, gradually rising in pitch and intensity as the text progresses. The text is in Latin and describes the birth of Christ, with references to the Virgin Mary and the Holy Spirit. The melody is characterized by its smooth, flowing lines and its use of melismatic passages, where multiple notes are sung on a single syllable. The second movement is a choral response that follows the solo chant. The text is also in Latin and consists of a series of short phrases that are repeated by the choir. The melody is more complex than the solo chant, with multiple voices singing in harmony and counterpoint. The rhythm is also more varied, with frequent changes in tempo and meter. Overall, "Cum processit" is a beautiful example of Hildegard von Bingen's unique style of plainchant. Her use of melismatic passages and complex harmonies creates a sense of otherworldly beauty and spiritual transcendence. The piece remains a beloved part of the medieval sacred music repertoire and continues to be performed and recorded by choirs and vocal ensembles around the world.

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