Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1843 - 1864

Publication Date

:

1847 - 1883

Average_duration

:

6:14

"I vidi in terra" is a sacred choral work composed by Franz Liszt in 1862. It is part of a larger work called "Christus," which is a musical representation of the life of Jesus Christ. "I vidi in terra" is the third movement of the oratorio and is written for a four-part choir and organ. The premiere of "Christus" took place in 1873, after Liszt's death, in Weimar, Germany. The work was performed in its entirety, including "I vidi in terra," which was well-received by the audience. "I vidi in terra" is a short but powerful piece that captures the essence of the biblical story it portrays. The text is taken from the Gospel of John, chapter 9, verses 1-11, which tells the story of Jesus healing a blind man. The music is written in a simple, yet effective style, with a slow and steady tempo that builds in intensity as the story unfolds. The first section of the piece is sung by the choir in unison, with the organ providing a simple accompaniment. The text is sung in Latin, with the choir repeating the phrase "I vidi in terra" (I saw on earth) several times. The repetition of this phrase creates a sense of anticipation and sets the stage for the story to come. As the story progresses, the music becomes more complex, with the choir singing in four-part harmony and the organ providing a more intricate accompaniment. The music reflects the emotions of the story, with moments of tension and release as the blind man is healed and the Pharisees question him about his experience. The final section of the piece is a triumphant chorus, with the choir singing in full harmony and the organ providing a powerful accompaniment. The text is sung in Latin, with the choir proclaiming the glory of God and the miracle that has taken place. Overall, "I vidi in terra" is a beautiful and moving piece of music that captures the essence of the biblical story it portrays. Its simple yet effective style and powerful emotions make it a standout movement in Liszt's "Christus" oratorio.

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