Composer

:

Carl Rütti

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1991

Average_duration

:

4:42

O Magnum Mysterium is a choral composition by Swiss composer Carl Rütti. It was composed in 1994 and premiered in the same year by the Choir of King's College, Cambridge, under the direction of Stephen Cleobury. The piece is written for four-part choir, with occasional divisi, and is approximately six minutes in length. The composition is divided into three movements, each of which explores a different aspect of the text. The first movement, "O Magnum Mysterium," is a setting of the opening words of the text and is characterized by a sense of awe and wonder. The choir sings in unison at the beginning of the movement, gradually building to a rich, harmonious climax before subsiding into a hushed, reverent conclusion. The second movement, "Quem Vidistis," is a setting of the second verse of the text and is more lively and rhythmic than the first. The choir sings in a lively, syncopated rhythm, with occasional bursts of energy and moments of stillness. The movement is characterized by a sense of joy and celebration, reflecting the joy of the shepherds who witnessed the birth of Christ. The final movement, "Alleluia," is a setting of the final words of the text and is characterized by a sense of exultation and triumph. The choir sings in a bright, jubilant tone, with soaring melodies and rich harmonies. The movement builds to a powerful climax before subsiding into a peaceful, contemplative conclusion. Overall, O Magnum Mysterium is a beautiful and moving composition that captures the wonder and joy of the Christmas story. Rütti's use of rich harmonies, soaring melodies, and rhythmic energy creates a sense of awe and celebration that is both uplifting and inspiring.

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