Composer

:

Morten Lauridsen

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1994

Average_duration

:

5:59

O Magnum Mysterium is a choral composition by Morten Lauridsen, an American composer and professor of composition at the University of Southern California. The piece was composed in 1994 and premiered in the same year by the Los Angeles Master Chorale, conducted by Paul Salamunovich. The composition is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different text. The first movement is based on the text "O magnum mysterium" (O great mystery), which is traditionally sung during the Christmas season. The second movement is based on the text "Quem vidistis, pastores?" (Whom did you see, shepherds?), which describes the shepherds' encounter with the baby Jesus. The third movement is based on the text "Videntes stellam" (Seeing the star), which describes the journey of the wise men to Bethlehem. The final movement is based on the text "Magi videntes stellam" (The wise men, seeing the star), which describes the arrival of the wise men and their gifts to the baby Jesus. The composition is characterized by its lush harmonies, rich textures, and expressive melodies. Lauridsen's use of dissonance and chromaticism creates a sense of tension and release, while his use of suspensions and resolutions creates a sense of longing and fulfillment. The piece is also notable for its use of polyphony, in which multiple voices sing different melodies simultaneously, creating a complex and layered sound. Overall, O Magnum Mysterium is a powerful and moving choral composition that captures the wonder and mystery of the Christmas story. Its enduring popularity has made it a staple of the choral repertoire, and it continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world.

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