Composer

:

Zoltán Kodály

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Hymn

Compose Date

:

1892

Average_duration

:

1:52

Zoltán Kodály's Stabat Mater is a choral work that was composed in 1949. It was premiered in Budapest on November 13, 1951, by the Hungarian Radio Choir and the Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by János Ferencsik. The work is divided into ten movements and is approximately 35 minutes in length. The Stabat Mater is a musical setting of the 13th-century Latin hymn that describes the sorrow of Mary, the mother of Jesus, as she stands at the foot of the cross. Kodály's interpretation of the text is deeply emotional and expressive, with a focus on the suffering and grief of Mary. The first movement, "Stabat Mater dolorosa," sets the tone for the entire work with its mournful melody and somber harmonies. The second movement, "Cujus animam gementem," features a solo soprano voice that sings a haunting melody over a sparse accompaniment. The third movement, "O quam tristis et afflicta," is a choral lament that builds in intensity as the voices overlap and intertwine. The fourth movement, "Quae moerebat et dolebat," is a duet for soprano and alto that expresses the pain and anguish of Mary as she watches her son die. The fifth movement, "Quis est homo," is a choral meditation on the nature of humanity and the sacrifice of Christ. The sixth movement, "Vidit suum dulcem natum," is a solo for mezzo-soprano that describes Mary's sorrow as she sees her beloved son die. The seventh movement, "Eja Mater fons amoris," is a choral prayer that asks for Mary's intercession and comfort. The eighth movement, "Fac ut ardeat cor meum," is a choral plea for spiritual renewal and transformation. The ninth movement, "Sancta Mater, istud agas," is a choral prayer that asks Mary to intercede on behalf of humanity. The final movement, "Fac me vere tecum flere," is a choral plea for the grace to weep with Mary at the foot of the cross. Kodály's Stabat Mater is characterized by its rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and powerful emotional impact. The work is a testament to the composer's deep faith and his ability to convey the profound spiritual truths of the Christian tradition through music.

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