Composer

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Gregorian Chant

Genre

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Choral

Style

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Chant

Average_duration

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0:52

'O Emmanuel' is the seventh and final antiphon of the Advent season in the Gregorian Chant. It is believed to have been composed in the 8th century and is traditionally sung on December 23rd. The antiphon is also known as the "Great O" antiphon, as it begins with the exclamation "O Emmanuel." The antiphon is typically sung in a call-and-response format, with a soloist or choir singing the verses and the congregation responding with the refrain "O Emmanuel." The melody is simple and chant-like, with a haunting quality that reflects the solemnity of the Advent season. The text of 'O Emmanuel' is taken from the book of Isaiah, and it speaks of the coming of the Messiah: "O Emmanuel, our King and Lawgiver, the Expected of the nations and their Savior: Come to save us, O Lord our God!" The antiphon is a powerful reminder of the hope and anticipation that characterized the Advent season, as well as the joy and celebration that would follow with the birth of Christ. The antiphon is part of a larger tradition of Advent antiphons, which were sung in monasteries and churches throughout the Middle Ages. Each antiphon is associated with a different name of Christ, and they are sung in order leading up to Christmas Eve. The other six antiphons are 'O Sapientia,' 'O Adonai,' 'O Radix Jesse,' 'O Clavis David,' 'O Oriens,' and 'O Rex Gentium.' Overall, 'O Emmanuel' is a beautiful and powerful example of Gregorian Chant, and it continues to be sung and celebrated in churches and monasteries around the world. Its haunting melody and powerful text serve as a reminder of the hope and joy that come with the birth of Christ, and it remains a beloved part of the Advent season for Christians everywhere.

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