Composer

:

John Tavener

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

2002

Average_duration

:

12:15

"Elizabeth Full of Grace" is a choral work composed by John Tavener in 1991. It was premiered on November 23, 1991, at the Westminster Cathedral in London, England. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "Elizabeth and the Angel," begins with a solo Tibetan bowl, which sets the mystical and otherworldly tone of the piece. The boys' chorus enters with a chant-like melody, accompanied by the organ and strings. The double chorus then enters, creating a rich and full sound. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonance and complex harmonies, which create a sense of tension and unease. The second movement, "Elizabeth and Mary," is a duet between the boys' chorus and the double chorus. The melody is simple and beautiful, with a gentle and flowing rhythm. The organ and strings provide a soft and delicate accompaniment, creating a sense of peace and tranquility. The movement is characterized by its use of simple harmonies and a gentle, flowing melody. The final movement, "Elizabeth and the Infant," begins with a solo Tibetan bowl, which is then joined by the boys' chorus. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a sense of joy and celebration. The double chorus then enters, creating a rich and full sound. The movement is characterized by its use of simple harmonies and a repetitive melody, which creates a sense of joy and celebration. Overall, "Elizabeth Full of Grace" is a mystical and otherworldly piece, characterized by its use of dissonance, complex harmonies, and simple melodies. The use of the Tibetan bowl adds to the mystical and spiritual nature of the piece, while the boys' chorus and double chorus create a rich and full sound. The piece is a beautiful tribute to the Virgin Mary and the story of Elizabeth and Mary.

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