Composer

:

Kenneth Leighton

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

4:41

"Solus ad victimam" is a choral work composed by Kenneth Leighton in 1963. The piece was premiered on 22nd May 1963 at St. John's College, Cambridge, by the choir of St. John's College, conducted by George Guest. The work is written for a four-part choir, with a duration of approximately 10 minutes. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, "Solus ad victimam," is a solemn and reflective setting of the Latin text, which translates to "Alone to the victim." The choir sings in unison, with occasional harmonies, creating a sense of unity and reverence. The movement is marked by a slow and steady tempo, with a sense of restraint and introspection. The second movement, "O vos omnes," is a more lively and energetic setting of the text, which translates to "O all ye that pass by." The choir sings in four-part harmony, with a faster tempo and more complex rhythms. The movement is marked by a sense of urgency and intensity, as the choir implores the listener to pay attention to the suffering of Christ. The final movement, "Ecce quomodo moritur justus," is a dramatic and powerful setting of the text, which translates to "Behold how the just man dies." The choir sings in four-part harmony, with a slow and mournful tempo. The movement is marked by a sense of sorrow and lamentation, as the choir reflects on the death of Christ and the sacrifice he made for humanity. Overall, "Solus ad victimam" is a deeply spiritual and emotional work, which showcases Leighton's skill as a composer of choral music. The piece is characterized by its use of rich harmonies, complex rhythms, and expressive melodies, which combine to create a powerful and moving musical experience.

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