Composer

:

Maurice Duruflé

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1960

Average_duration

:

8:33

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Maurice Duruflé's 'Motets (4) on Gregorian Themes, Op.10' is a collection of four choral pieces that were composed in 1960. The premiere of the work took place on 17th June 1961, at the Église Saint-Étienne-du-Mont in Paris, France. The four movements of the work are based on Gregorian chants, which are the traditional melodies used in the liturgy of the Roman Catholic Church. The first movement, 'Ubi caritas et amor', is a serene and contemplative piece that is based on the Gregorian chant of the same name. The piece begins with a unison chant that is gradually harmonized by the choir. The music builds to a climax before returning to the peaceful opening theme. The second movement, 'Tota pulchra es', is based on a chant that is traditionally sung during the Feast of the Assumption. The piece is characterized by its flowing melodies and rich harmonies. The choir sings in a homophonic style, with all voices moving together in harmony. The third movement, 'Tu es Petrus', is based on a chant that is traditionally sung during the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul. The piece is characterized by its rhythmic energy and driving tempo. The choir sings in a polyphonic style, with different voices singing different melodies at the same time. The final movement, 'Tantum ergo', is based on a chant that is traditionally sung during the Eucharistic procession. The piece is characterized by its solemn and reverent tone. The choir sings in a homophonic style, with all voices moving together in harmony. The music builds to a climax before returning to the peaceful opening theme. Overall, Duruflé's 'Motets (4) on Gregorian Themes, Op.10' is a beautiful and contemplative work that showcases the composer's skill in setting traditional melodies to modern harmonies. The work is characterized by its rich harmonies, flowing melodies, and rhythmic energy, and is a testament to Duruflé's mastery of choral composition.

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