Composer

:

Jón Nordal

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

3:13

Salutatio Mariae is a choral work composed by Jón Nordal, an Icelandic composer, in 1995. The piece was premiered on December 3, 1995, by the Schola Cantorum Reykjavik Chamber Choir, conducted by Hörður Áskelsson, at the Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavik, Iceland. Salutatio Mariae is a four-movement work that is based on texts from the Bible and medieval Icelandic poetry. The first movement, "Ave Maria," is a setting of the traditional Latin prayer to the Virgin Mary. The second movement, "Móðir mín í kví kví," is a setting of a medieval Icelandic poem that praises the Virgin Mary. The third movement, "Magnificat," is a setting of the canticle of Mary from the Gospel of Luke. The fourth and final movement, "Ave maris stella," is a setting of a medieval hymn to the Virgin Mary. The characteristics of Salutatio Mariae are rooted in the composer's Icelandic heritage and his interest in medieval music. The work features a mix of traditional Latin and Icelandic texts, and the music incorporates elements of Icelandic folk music and medieval chant. The choral writing is lush and expressive, with rich harmonies and soaring melodies. The work also features moments of rhythmic complexity and dissonance, creating a sense of tension and release. Overall, Salutatio Mariae is a powerful and moving work that showcases Jón Nordal's unique musical voice and his deep connection to his Icelandic heritage. Its premiere was met with critical acclaim, and it has since become a beloved piece in the choral repertoire.

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