Composer

:

Hildegard von Bingen

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

ca. 1140 - 1179

Average_duration

:

11:05

'O cohors milite floris' is a sacred vocal composition composed by Hildegard von Bingen, a German composer, writer, and mystic who lived in the 12th century. The piece is part of her collection of liturgical songs known as the 'Symphonia armonie celestium revelationum' (Symphony of the Harmony of Celestial Revelations), which consists of 77 pieces. The exact date of composition of 'O cohors milite floris' is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the 12th century. The piece was first performed during Hildegard's lifetime, likely in the context of her religious community at the Abbey of Rupertsberg, where she served as abbess. 'O cohors milite floris' is a monophonic chant, meaning that it is sung by a single voice without accompaniment. The piece is divided into two sections, each with its own distinct melody and text. The first section begins with the words "O cohors milite floris," which can be translated as "O company of flower soldiers." The text goes on to describe the beauty and purity of the Virgin Mary, whom Hildegard often referred to as the "flower of the field." The second section of the piece begins with the words "O quam mirabilis est," which can be translated as "O how wonderful it is." This section continues to praise the Virgin Mary, describing her as a "tower of ivory" and a "garden enclosed." The text also makes reference to the biblical story of the Song of Solomon, in which the lover compares his beloved to a garden. Musically, 'O cohors milite floris' is characterized by its soaring melodic lines and intricate ornamentation. The piece is written in a mode known as the Dorian mode, which gives it a haunting and otherworldly quality. Hildegard's use of melismatic singing, in which multiple notes are sung on a single syllable, adds to the piece's sense of fluidity and movement. Overall, 'O cohors milite floris' is a beautiful and evocative example of Hildegard von Bingen's unique musical style. Its combination of soaring melodies and intricate ornamentation, along with its richly poetic text, make it a powerful expression of the composer's deep spiritual and artistic vision.

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