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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3:15

Vultum Tuum is a Gregorian chant that is believed to have been composed in the 11th century. It is a part of the liturgy of the Catholic Church and is traditionally sung during the distribution of ashes on Ash Wednesday. The chant is based on the text of Psalm 50:3, which reads "My face shall go before thee, and I will make thee to stand upright." The chant is divided into two movements, with the first movement being sung by a soloist and the second movement being sung by the choir. The first movement is characterized by a simple melody that is sung in a free rhythm. The soloist sings the text "Vultum tuum deprecabuntur omnes divites" (All the rich shall make supplication before thy face) in a plaintive and mournful tone. The melody is characterized by a descending melodic line that emphasizes the humility and contrition of the supplicant. The second movement begins with the choir singing the text "Asperges me, Domine, hyssopo, et mundabor" (Thou shalt sprinkle me, O Lord, with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed). The melody is more complex than the first movement, with a series of ascending and descending melodic lines that create a sense of movement and progression. The choir sings in a more joyful and celebratory tone, reflecting the idea of purification and renewal. Overall, Vultum Tuum is a powerful and moving chant that reflects the themes of repentance, humility, and renewal that are central to the liturgy of the Catholic Church. Its simple yet beautiful melody and powerful text have made it a beloved part of the Ash Wednesday liturgy for centuries.

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