Composer

:

Russian Orthodox Chant

Genre

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Choral

Average_duration

:

5:10

"Glory to the Holy, Consubstantial, Life-Giving and Undivided Trinity" is a hymn composed by the Russian Orthodox Chant. It is a part of the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, which is the most commonly celebrated liturgy in the Eastern Orthodox Church. The hymn is sung during the Great Doxology, which is the final hymn of the liturgy. The hymn was composed in the 16th century, during the reign of Ivan the Terrible. It was first performed in the Cathedral of the Dormition in Moscow, which was the main church of the Russian Orthodox Church at the time. The hymn quickly became popular and spread throughout the Orthodox world. The hymn is divided into three movements, each of which praises a different aspect of the Holy Trinity. The first movement praises the Father, the second praises the Son, and the third praises the Holy Spirit. Each movement is characterized by its use of rich harmonies, soaring melodies, and intricate counterpoint. The first movement begins with a solemn chant that gradually builds in intensity as the choir sings "Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit." The choir then sings a series of praises to the Father, including "Thou art the King of Glory, O Christ," and "Thou art the Lord of Hosts, O Christ." The second movement begins with a joyful fanfare that celebrates the incarnation of Christ. The choir sings "Glory to Thee, O God, glory to Thee," and then praises Christ as the "only-begotten Son and Word of God." The choir then sings a series of praises to Christ, including "Thou hast redeemed us from the curse of the law," and "Thou hast trampled down death by death." The third movement begins with a gentle chant that celebrates the Holy Spirit as the "Giver of Life." The choir sings "Glory to Thee, O God, glory to Thee," and then praises the Holy Spirit as the "Comforter" and the "Spirit of Truth." The choir then sings a series of praises to the Holy Spirit, including "Thou hast sanctified us by Thy Holy Spirit," and "Thou hast made us partakers of Thy Kingdom." Overall, "Glory to the Holy, Consubstantial, Life-Giving and Undivided Trinity" is a powerful hymn that celebrates the central mystery of the Christian faith. Its rich harmonies, soaring melodies, and intricate counterpoint make it a beloved part of the Orthodox liturgy.

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