Composer

:

Richard Rodney Bennett

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1980

Average_duration

:

2:26

'Puer nobis' is a choral work composed by Richard Rodney Bennett in 1984. The piece was premiered on December 16, 1984, by the Choir of King's College, Cambridge, under the direction of Stephen Cleobury. The work is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different Christmas carol. The first movement, "Puer nobis nascitur," is a setting of the medieval carol of the same name. The second movement, "In dulci jubilo," is a setting of the well-known carol of the same name. The third movement, "Personent hodie," is a setting of the medieval carol "On this day earth shall ring." The final movement, "Quem pastores laudavere," is a setting of the medieval carol "Shepherds, in the field abiding." Bennett's setting of these carols is characterized by his use of rich harmonies and lush textures. The choral writing is often homophonic, with the voices moving together in block chords. However, Bennett also employs polyphonic textures, with the voices weaving in and out of each other in intricate counterpoint. The first movement, "Puer nobis nascitur," begins with a unison chant-like melody that gradually builds in intensity as the voices add harmonies and the organ accompaniment becomes more complex. The second movement, "In dulci jubilo," is a lively and joyful setting of the carol, with the voices and organ interweaving in a dance-like rhythm. The third movement, "Personent hodie," begins with a solo soprano voice singing the melody, which is then taken up by the full choir. The movement features a soaring soprano solo and a dramatic organ interlude before returning to the main theme. The final movement, "Quem pastores laudavere," is a lively and energetic setting of the carol, with the voices and organ interweaving in a complex and intricate counterpoint. The movement builds to a triumphant climax before ending with a quiet and peaceful coda. Overall, 'Puer nobis' is a beautiful and masterful setting of these beloved Christmas carols, showcasing Bennett's skill as a composer and his ability to create rich and complex choral textures.

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