Composer

:

Francis Poulenc

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1950 - 1951

Average_duration

:

29:47

Movement_count

:

12

Movement ....

Francis Poulenc's 'Stabat Mater, FP 148' is a choral work that was composed in 1950. It was premiered on June 2, 1951, in Paris, France, by the Choeur de la Société Musicale Indépendante and the Orchestre National de la Radiodiffusion Française, conducted by Georges Tzipine. The 'Stabat Mater' is divided into twelve movements, each of which is based on a different verse of the medieval Latin hymn 'Stabat Mater Dolorosa,' which describes the sorrow of Mary as she stands at the foot of the cross of her son, Jesus. The movements are arranged in a symmetrical pattern, with the first and last movements being for choir alone, the second and eleventh movements for solo soprano, the third and tenth movements for choir and solo soprano, the fourth and ninth movements for choir and solo tenor, the fifth and eighth movements for choir and solo bass, and the sixth and seventh movements for choir and orchestra. The 'Stabat Mater' is characterized by Poulenc's unique blend of modernist and traditional elements. The harmonies are often dissonant and complex, but they are balanced by the use of traditional tonal structures and melodies. The choral writing is lush and expressive, with rich harmonies and soaring melodies. The solo parts are virtuosic and demanding, requiring a high level of technical skill and emotional depth. Overall, the 'Stabat Mater' is a deeply moving and powerful work that reflects Poulenc's Catholic faith and his personal struggles with loss and grief. It is a testament to his skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both modern and timeless.

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