Composer

:

Charles Villiers Stanford

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Anthem

Compose Date

:

1888

Average_duration

:

3:15

"Justorum Animae" is a choral work composed by Charles Villiers Stanford, an Irish composer, conductor, and teacher. The piece is part of his Three Latin Motets, Op. 38, which were composed in 1905. The premiere of the work was on October 17, 1905, at the Leeds Festival, where it was performed by the Leeds Festival Chorus under the direction of Stanford himself. The piece is written for a four-part mixed choir, with the text taken from the Book of Wisdom, chapter 3, verses 1-3. The work is in Latin, and the text translates to "The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God, and there shall no torment touch them. In the sight of the unwise they seemed to die, but they are in peace. Alleluia." The piece is divided into three movements, with the first and third movements being in a slow tempo, while the second movement is in a faster tempo. The first movement begins with a unison statement of the text, which is then developed through polyphonic writing. The second movement is more lively and rhythmic, with the choir singing in a homophonic style. The final movement returns to the slower tempo of the first movement, with the choir singing in a more complex polyphonic style. The characteristics of "Justorum Animae" reflect Stanford's style of composition, which was heavily influenced by the English choral tradition. The piece is characterized by its use of rich harmonies, intricate polyphonic writing, and expressive melodies. The work also showcases Stanford's skill in setting text to music, with the music enhancing the meaning and emotion of the words. Overall, "Justorum Animae" is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases Stanford's mastery of choral composition. Its premiere at the Leeds Festival was well-received, and the piece continues to be performed and enjoyed by choirs around the world.

More....