Composer

:

Antonin Dvorák

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Oratorio

Compose Date

:

Sep 17, 1885 - May 30, 1886

Publication Date

:

1887

First Performance

:

Oct 15, 1886

Average_duration

:

129:32

Antonin Dvorák's "Saint Ludmilla, B. 144, Op. 71" is a cantata composed in 1886. It premiered on November 28, 1886, in Prague, Czech Republic. The cantata is divided into three movements and is approximately 35 minutes in length. The first movement, "Ludmilla," is an introduction to the story of Saint Ludmilla, a Czech saint who was murdered by her daughter-in-law. The movement begins with a solemn and mournful melody played by the orchestra, which is then joined by the choir singing a hymn to Saint Ludmilla. The movement ends with a powerful climax as the choir sings "Hail, Ludmilla, hail!" The second movement, "The Death of Ludmilla," is a dramatic and intense portrayal of the murder of Saint Ludmilla. The movement begins with a tense and ominous melody played by the orchestra, which is then joined by the choir singing a lament for Saint Ludmilla. The movement builds to a climax as the choir sings "Woe, woe, woe!" and the orchestra plays a frenzied and chaotic melody. The third movement, "The Glorification of Ludmilla," is a triumphant and joyful celebration of Saint Ludmilla's life and legacy. The movement begins with a lively and energetic melody played by the orchestra, which is then joined by the choir singing a hymn of praise to Saint Ludmilla. The movement ends with a grand and majestic climax as the choir sings "Hail, Ludmilla, hail!" and the orchestra plays a triumphant melody. Overall, "Saint Ludmilla, B. 144, Op. 71" is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Dvorák's skill as a composer. The cantata is characterized by its use of rich harmonies, dramatic contrasts, and powerful choral writing. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Saint Ludmilla and the Czech people's deep reverence for their saints and martyrs.

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