Composer

:

Louis Vierne

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1891

Average_duration

:

3:07

Tantum ergo, Op. 2 is a choral work composed by Louis Vierne, a French organist and composer, in 1898. The piece was premiered on June 5, 1898, at the Church of Saint-Sulpice in Paris, where Vierne served as the assistant organist. Tantum ergo is a hymn that is traditionally sung during the veneration of the Blessed Sacrament in the Catholic Church. Vierne's setting of the hymn is written for four-part mixed choir and organ. The piece is divided into three movements: The first movement is a solemn and meditative setting of the hymn's opening verses. The choir sings the Latin text in unison, while the organ provides a rich harmonic accompaniment. The movement builds to a climax with a powerful chord progression before subsiding into a quiet and reflective conclusion. The second movement is a lively and rhythmic setting of the hymn's middle verses. The choir sings in four-part harmony, with the organ providing a lively accompaniment. The movement features a number of dynamic contrasts and rhythmic variations, creating a sense of joyful celebration. The third movement is a grand and majestic setting of the hymn's final verses. The choir sings in full harmony, with the organ providing a rich and powerful accompaniment. The movement features a number of dramatic climaxes and a final chord that rings out with a sense of triumph and glory. Vierne's setting of Tantum ergo is characterized by its rich harmonies, lush textures, and dramatic contrasts. The piece showcases Vierne's skill as both a composer and an organist, with the organ part providing a rich and varied accompaniment to the choir. The piece is a testament to Vierne's deep faith and his love for the Catholic liturgy, and it remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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