Composer

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William Mathias

Genre

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Choral

Style

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Choral

"Salvator mundi (30), Op. 89" is a choral work composed by William Mathias in 1984. The piece was premiered on May 12, 1984, at St. David's Hall in Cardiff, Wales, by the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales, conducted by Richard Hickox. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, "Salvator mundi," is a setting of the Latin text "Salvator mundi, salva nos" ("Savior of the world, save us"). The music is characterized by a sense of urgency and intensity, with the choir and orchestra building to a powerful climax. The second movement, "Agnus Dei," is a setting of the Latin text "Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi" ("Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world"). The music is more subdued and introspective, with a haunting melody in the choir and a gentle accompaniment in the orchestra. The final movement, "Gloria in excelsis Deo," is a setting of the Latin text "Gloria in excelsis Deo" ("Glory to God in the highest"). The music is joyful and celebratory, with the choir and orchestra bursting into exuberant fanfares and triumphant melodies. Overall, "Salvator mundi (30), Op. 89" is a powerful and moving work that showcases Mathias's skill as a composer of choral music. The piece is characterized by its dramatic contrasts, from the urgent intensity of the first movement to the joyful exuberance of the final movement.

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