Composer

:

Olivier Messiaen

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Motet

Compose Date

:

1937

Average_duration

:

4:36

'O sacrum convivium!, I/18' is a sacred choral work composed by Olivier Messiaen in 1937. The piece was premiered on June 4, 1937, at the Église de la Sainte-Trinité in Paris, where Messiaen was the organist. The work is written for four-part mixed choir a cappella and is based on a Latin text from the Roman Catholic liturgy. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Très lent" (very slow) and is characterized by its rich harmonies and use of dissonance. The choir sings in unison for much of the movement, with occasional moments of polyphony. The second movement, marked "Modéré" (moderate), is more rhythmic and lively, with a driving pulse and syncopated rhythms. The final movement, marked "Très lent" (very slow), returns to the contemplative mood of the first movement, with the choir singing in unison and the harmonies gradually building to a climax before subsiding into a peaceful conclusion. The text of 'O sacrum convivium!' is a hymn of praise to the Eucharist, the sacrament of the body and blood of Christ. Messiaen's setting of the text reflects the mystical and transcendent qualities of the Eucharist, with its use of rich harmonies, dissonance, and moments of ecstatic intensity. The work is a testament to Messiaen's deep Catholic faith and his belief in the power of music to express the ineffable mysteries of the divine. Overall, 'O sacrum convivium!, I/18' is a masterful example of Messiaen's unique style, which combines elements of traditional Western music with influences from non-Western musical traditions, as well as his own personal spirituality. The work has become a staple of the choral repertoire and continues to inspire and move audiences with its profound beauty and spiritual depth.

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