Composer

:

Gregorian Chant

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass Ordinary

Average_duration

:

2:44

'Nos autem gloriari oportet' is a Gregorian Chant that is believed to have been composed in the 6th century. The chant is often associated with the Feast of the Holy Cross, which is celebrated on September 14th. The chant is also known as the 'Hymn of the Holy Cross' and is considered to be one of the most important chants in the Gregorian repertoire. The chant is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is a solo chant that is sung by a cantor. The second movement is a chorus that is sung by the entire choir. The third movement is a repetition of the first movement, sung by the cantor. The first movement of the chant is characterized by its slow and solemn melody. The cantor sings the text, which is taken from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Galatians: "But it behooves us to glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, in whom is our salvation, life, and resurrection; by whom we are saved and delivered." The melody is simple and repetitive, with the cantor repeating the same phrase several times. The second movement of the chant is more lively and joyful. The choir sings the text, which is a response to the cantor's solo: "May the cross of Christ be with us; may it be before us, behind us, above us, beneath us, within us, and around us." The melody is more complex than the first movement, with the choir singing in harmony and the melody moving between different voices. The third movement of the chant is a repetition of the first movement, sung by the cantor. The melody is the same as the first movement, but the text is slightly different: "Through whom we are saved and delivered, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen." The repetition of the first movement serves to reinforce the message of the chant and to bring the piece to a close. Overall, 'Nos autem gloriari oportet' is a powerful and moving chant that celebrates the importance of the cross in the Christian faith. The chant's simple melody and repetitive structure make it easy to sing and remember, while its message of salvation and deliverance resonates with believers to this day.

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