Composer

:

Frank Martin

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Oratorio

Compose Date

:

1944

First Performance

:

May 7, 1945

Average_duration

:

45:42

Movement_count

:

11

Movement ....

Frank Martin's "In Terra Pax" is a choral work that was composed in 1944. It was premiered in Zurich, Switzerland on December 17, 1944, by the Zurich Chamber Orchestra and the Zurich Chamber Choir, conducted by the composer himself. The work is divided into two movements, with the first movement being a setting of the Christmas story from the Gospel of Luke, and the second movement being a setting of a poem by Robert Bridges. The first movement of "In Terra Pax" is marked "Andante moderato" and begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the strings. The choir enters with the words "Glory to God in the highest," and the music gradually builds in intensity as the angels proclaim the birth of Christ. The choir then sings the words of the shepherds, expressing their wonder and amazement at the sight of the newborn baby. The movement ends with a return to the gentle, flowing melody of the opening. The second movement of "In Terra Pax" is marked "Lento" and is a setting of Robert Bridges' poem "Noel: Christmas Eve, 1913." The music is somber and reflective, with the choir singing of the darkness and despair of the world before the coming of Christ. The solo baritone then enters with the words "And on earth peace, goodwill towards men," and the choir joins in with a joyful proclamation of the peace that Christ brings to the world. The movement ends with a return to the somber music of the opening, as the choir sings of the need for Christ's peace to be spread throughout the world. Overall, "In Terra Pax" is a deeply spiritual work that reflects Martin's Catholic faith and his belief in the power of music to convey profound emotions and ideas. The music is characterized by its lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and expressive use of choral textures. The work has become a beloved part of the choral repertoire and is frequently performed during the Christmas season.

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