Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1877

Publication Date

:

1883

Average_duration

:

3:31

"Sursum Corda!, S. 163/7" is a sacred choral work composed by Franz Liszt in 1865. The piece was premiered on August 6, 1865, at the consecration of the new chapel of the Franciscan Sisters of the Holy Family in Pest, Hungary. The work is part of Liszt's collection of sacred choral works, which he composed during his later years. "Sursum Corda!" is the seventh movement of the collection, which is titled "Christus." The collection is based on the life of Christ and includes a prologue, three parts, and an epilogue. "Sursum Corda!" is a Latin phrase that means "Lift up your hearts!" The piece is a hymn of praise and thanksgiving, and it is written for a four-part choir with organ accompaniment. The text is taken from the Catholic Mass, specifically the Preface dialogue, which is said before the Eucharistic Prayer. The piece begins with a majestic organ introduction, which sets the tone for the rest of the work. The choir then enters with a unison chant of "Sursum Corda!" The music builds in intensity as the choir sings a series of ascending phrases, which culminate in a powerful chord progression. The choir then sings a series of homophonic phrases, which are punctuated by the organ. The middle section of the piece features a solo soprano, who sings a melodic line that is accompanied by the choir. The soprano's melody is based on the Gregorian chant "Veni Creator Spiritus," which is traditionally sung at Pentecost. The choir then joins in with a series of harmonized phrases, which lead to a climactic section where the choir sings "Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus" (Holy, Holy, Holy). The piece ends with a recapitulation of the opening section, with the choir singing "Sursum Corda!" in unison. The organ then plays a final chord, which brings the piece to a close. Overall, "Sursum Corda!" is a powerful and uplifting work that showcases Liszt's skill as a composer of sacred choral music. The piece is characterized by its majestic organ accompaniment, soaring vocal lines, and dramatic chord progressions. It is a fitting tribute to the Franciscan Sisters of the Holy Family and a testament to Liszt's enduring legacy as a composer.

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