Composer

:

Ola Gjeilo

Compose Date

:

2001

Average_duration

:

6:39

"Unicornis Captivatur" is a choral work composed by Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo. The piece was composed in 2001 and premiered in the same year by the Choral Arts Society of Washington, D.C. The work is based on a Latin text from a 14th-century manuscript, which tells the story of a unicorn being captured by hunters and brought to a castle, where it is eventually freed by a maiden. The piece is divided into six movements, each of which represents a different part of the story. The first movement, "Prologue," sets the scene with a haunting melody sung by the choir. The second movement, "The Unicorn," introduces the character of the unicorn with a lively and playful melody. The third movement, "In Captivity," is more somber and mournful, reflecting the unicorn's imprisonment. The fourth movement, "The Hunters," is more aggressive and intense, with the choir singing in a rhythmic and percussive style to represent the hunters' pursuit of the unicorn. The fifth movement, "The Maiden," is a beautiful and ethereal solo sung by a soprano, representing the maiden who frees the unicorn. The final movement, "Epilogue," brings the piece to a close with a return to the haunting melody of the prologue. Throughout the piece, Gjeilo uses a variety of choral techniques to create a rich and complex sound. He often employs overlapping vocal lines, creating a sense of depth and texture. He also uses dissonance and unexpected harmonies to create tension and drama. Overall, "Unicornis Captivatur" is a stunning choral work that tells a beautiful and timeless story. Gjeilo's use of vocal techniques and harmonies creates a unique and captivating sound that is sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners.

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