Composer

:

Frank Martin

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1967 - 1969

First Performance

:

Nov 13, 1969

Average_duration

:

21:16

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Frank Martin's 'Maria-Triptychon' is a choral work composed in 1973. It was premiered on December 8, 1973, in the St. Ursen Cathedral in Solothurn, Switzerland. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is dedicated to a different aspect of the Virgin Mary. The first movement, 'Ave Maria,' is a setting of the traditional Latin prayer. Martin's version is characterized by its simplicity and clarity, with the choir singing in unison for much of the piece. The harmonies are spare and the melody is straightforward, creating a sense of reverence and devotion. The second movement, 'Stabat Mater,' is a setting of the medieval hymn of the same name. The text describes Mary's grief at the crucifixion of her son, and Martin's music captures the emotional intensity of the words. The choir sings in rich, complex harmonies, with dissonances and suspensions creating a sense of tension and sorrow. The final movement, 'Magnificat,' is a setting of the canticle of Mary from the Gospel of Luke. Martin's version is characterized by its rhythmic vitality and exuberance, with the choir singing in lively, syncopated rhythms. The harmonies are more complex than in the first movement, with frequent modulations and chromaticism creating a sense of joy and celebration. Overall, 'Maria-Triptychon' is a deeply spiritual work that reflects Martin's Catholic faith. The music is characterized by its simplicity, clarity, and emotional intensity, with each movement offering a different perspective on the Virgin Mary. The piece has become a staple of the choral repertoire and is widely regarded as one of Martin's most important works.

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