Composer

:

Hildegard von Bingen

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

ca. 1140 - 1179

Average_duration

:

5:46

'O splendissima' is a hymn composed by Hildegard von Bingen, a German Benedictine abbess, writer, composer, and philosopher who lived in the 12th century. The exact date of composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been written in the early 12th century. The hymn is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is one of Hildegard's most famous works. 'O splendissima' is a monophonic chant, meaning it is sung by a single voice without any accompanying instruments. The melody is characterized by its soaring, ethereal quality, with long, flowing phrases that evoke a sense of spiritual transcendence. The text is in Latin and praises the Virgin Mary as the "most splendid" and "most radiant" of all creatures. The hymn is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement begins with a soaring melody that gradually builds in intensity, reaching a climax on the word "splendissima." The second movement is more subdued, with a gentler melody that emphasizes the Virgin Mary's role as a source of comfort and protection. The final movement returns to the soaring, ecstatic melody of the first, with the singer proclaiming the Virgin Mary's glory and exhorting others to join in the praise. Overall, 'O splendissima' is a testament to Hildegard's skill as a composer and her deep devotion to the Virgin Mary. Its soaring melody and ecstatic lyrics have made it a beloved piece of sacred music for centuries, and it continues to inspire and uplift listeners to this day.

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