Composer

:

Camille Saint-Saëns

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

ca. 1860

Average_duration

:

3:32

Tantum ergo is a sacred hymn composed by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns. The hymn was composed in 1867 and premiered on June 2, 1867, at the Church of Saint-Sulpice in Paris. The hymn is a part of the larger work, Messe de Requiem, which was composed by Saint-Saëns in memory of his friend and fellow composer, Hector Berlioz. Tantum ergo is a part of the final movement of the Messe de Requiem, which is the Agnus Dei. The hymn is a setting of the last two verses of the Eucharistic hymn, Pange Lingua, which is traditionally sung during the procession of the Blessed Sacrament. The hymn is written for four-part choir and organ accompaniment. The hymn is characterized by its solemn and reverent tone, which is appropriate for its use during the procession of the Blessed Sacrament. The melody is simple and chant-like, with a steady rhythm and a limited range. The harmonies are also simple, with a focus on the traditional tonalities of the Catholic Church. The text of the hymn is in Latin and is a prayer of adoration and supplication to the Blessed Sacrament. The first verse begins with the words "Tantum ergo Sacramentum," which translates to "Therefore so great a Sacrament." The hymn goes on to praise the mystery of the Eucharist and to ask for the grace and mercy of God. Overall, Tantum ergo is a beautiful and reverent hymn that is a testament to Saint-Saëns' skill as a composer of sacred music. Its use in the Messe de Requiem is a fitting tribute to the memory of Hector Berlioz and to the Catholic tradition of music in worship.

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